Madaurus
Madaurus, also known as Mdaourouch, is an ancient inland city located in eastern Algeria, positioned at an elevation of 3,280 feet above sea level. Founded in the third century BC, it had a diverse population of Berber and Phoenician origins. During its early history, Madaurus was under the rule of notable leaders such as Syphax and later King Masinissa. After the establishment of the Roman province of Africa in 146 BC, the city was strategically used to monitor the Musulamii tribe. In the late first century AD, during the Flavian dynasty, it was elevated to the status of a Roman colony, known as Colonia Flavia Augusta Veteranorum Madaurensium.
Madaurus was renowned for its olive groves and educational institutions and is historically significant as the birthplace of the writer Apuleius. It also served as a center of learning for early Christian figures, including St. Augustine. Archaeological remains in the area include a colonnaded forum, a theater from the Severan period, and various bathing establishments, reflecting the city’s vibrant cultural and social life. The coexistence of pagan and Christian influences is evident in its numerous basilicas and religious sites, showcasing the region's rich historical tapestry.
Subject Terms
Madaurus
Madauros (Mdaourouch)
An inland city of Numidia (eastern Algeria), situated on undulating land 3,280 feet above sea level. Founded in the third century BC with a mixed Berber and Phoenician population, it belonged toward the end of the century to Syphax, chief of the Numidian tribe of the Masaesyli and then to King Masinissa (d. 148). When the Romans formed the province of Africa (146) they employed Madaurus to keep a watch over the powerful tribe of the Musulamii.
During the Flavian dynasty (AD 69–96) the town received a draft of exsoldiers and the status of a Roman colony (Colonia Flavia Augusta Veteranorum Madaurensium). Its olive groves were notable, and so were its numerous schools. Madaurus was the birthplace of the novelist Apuleius (c 123), who belonged to a rich local family. Bishops are known from 348, and St. Augustine (354–430) studied there, though paganism, too, long continued to flourish.
The colonnaded forum is flanked by a basilica of the late imperial epoch. Nearby are the remains of a theater that probably dates from the time of the Severan dynasty (193–235). Large and small bathing establishments, for summer and winter use respectively, belong to the same period. The former stands next to a second pagan basilica, and there is also a fifth century Christian basilica-church in the district, in addition to another outside the town.