Libyco-Punic Mausoleum of Dougga

The Libyco-Punic Mausoleum of Dougga is a limestone burial monument rising 21 meters with multiple stepped levels topped by a pyramid and featuring columns and detailed reliefs. The structure displays carved decorative elements distributed across all three tiers of the monument.

The mausoleum was built around 200 BCE and served as the burial monument for Prince Ataban. It contains bilingual inscriptions now housed in the British Museum.

The design shows a mix of architectural styles visible in the ionic columns, chariot reliefs, and decorative elements across three levels. Visitors can observe how different cultural influences came together in this single structure.

The monument stands near the market square of the archaeological site and is easy to reach while exploring the UNESCO World Heritage location. You can view it at your own pace as part of your visit to the wider complex.

Bird-women figures sit at the corners of the pyramidal top, believed to guide the deceased to the afterlife according to local beliefs. These rare carved figures reveal how spiritual convictions shaped the design.

Location: Beja Governorate

Inception: 2 century BCE

Architects: Atban

Creator: Atban, Abdarisch, Zimer, Managai, Zazai, Tamôn, Warsakan, Masidil, Ankan, Schafot, Papai

Height: 21 m

Made from material: limestone

Part of: Dougga

GPS coordinates: 36.42030,9.22020

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:01