## FATSHIMETRIE REPORT: Diving into the heart of the archaeological treasures of Dougga, Tunisia
In the heart of Tunisian lands lies a true jewel full of history: the ancient city of Dougga. With its more than 3000 years of existence and its rich multicultural past, this archaeological site is a window on the civilizations that have shaped this region over the centuries.
Within this preserved site, passionate archaeologists carry out meticulous excavations, gradually revealing the treasures buried under the ruins. Thanks to international partnerships, particularly Tunisian-French, these researchers explore every nook and cranny of Dougga to unravel all its mysteries.
During our immersion on site, between the remains of the ancient city and the centuries-old olive groves that dot the landscape, we were able to observe the hard work of the archaeologists. Haitham Abidi, a heritage advisor, guided us through the inventory of recent discoveries. Despite the progress of previous excavations, there is still so much to discover in Dougga, where each excavation holds its share of surprises.
The doctoral student in Roman archaeology, Chloé Damel, focuses her research on exhumed sculptures, often neglected in the past. Through these artistic works, she immerses us in the religious and mythological universe that once animated the inhabitants of Dougga. The statues of divinities, the mythological representations, the portraits of emperors, each work bears witness to a rich and fascinating past.
As we walk around the site, we realize the extent of the discoveries already made and the still untapped archaeological potential of Dougga. The excavations have uncovered nearly 600 sculptures, some of which are exhibited at the Bardo Museum in Tunis. However, the creation of a museum on site would allow these treasures to be fully valued and made accessible to as many people as possible.
Dougga, witness to multiple eras, slowly reveals its secrets over the centuries. The Byzantine remains, the Roman fortifications, the Punic monuments, each layer of history overlaps to offer a complex and fascinating picture. The palpitation of the past still resonates through the stones of this ancient city, calling archaeologists to continue their quest for knowledge and preservation of heritage.
In conclusion, Dougga reveals itself as a true archaeological treasure, where the history of civilizations unfolds before our amazed eyes. This exceptional site, witness to a rich past, embodies the need to preserve and enhance our common cultural heritage for future generations. A dive into history that reminds us of the richness and diversity of our world heritage.