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Colonnaded Street: A Stroll Through Roman Grandeur

Stroll through history on Leptis Magna's Colonnaded Street, a stunning example of Roman architecture and urban design from the reign of Septimius Severus.

The Colonnaded Street in Leptis Magna is a testament to Roman urban planning and architectural prowess. Built during the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus, this 400-meter-long avenue once connected the city center to the harbor, lined with towering columns and bustling with shops and public life. Today, it offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans and imagine the city's vibrant past.

A brief summary to Colonnaded Street

  • J7QW+27J, Leptis Magna, LY

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven surfaces of the ancient street.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense heat.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade along the Colonnaded Street.
  • Allow ample time to explore the adjacent sites, such as the Hadrianic Baths and the Severan Forum.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the Colonnaded Street and Leptis Magna.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Leptis Magna Museum, head north towards the main archaeological site. The Colonnaded Street is a central feature of the site, easily accessible from the museum entrance. Follow the marked paths, keeping the Mediterranean Sea to your east. The street begins near the Hadrianic Baths and extends towards the Severan Forum. There are no entrance fees beyond the general admission to Leptis Magna.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Al-Khums or Zliten, a taxi can take you to the entrance of Leptis Magna. Agree on a fare beforehand, as meters are not commonly used. A typical fare from Al-Khums is around 15-20 LYD. From the entrance, the Colonnaded Street is a short walk into the main site. Remember to purchase your entry ticket at the gate.

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Discover more about Colonnaded Street

The Colonnaded Street of Leptis Magna stands as a magnificent example of Roman urban design. Constructed during the rule of Septimius Severus in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, this grand avenue served as a monumental route from the city's harbor to the central areas, including the Hadrianic Baths. The street highlights the city's importance during the Roman Empire and the architectural advancements of the time. Designed with inspiration from Julia Domna, the Syrian wife of Septimius Severus, the Colonnaded Street became a model for similar streets in the Roman Middle East. However, none matched the splendor of the Leptis Magna example. The street stretched approximately 400 meters and was 20.5 meters wide, flanked by 125 columns on each side made of white cipolin marble imported from Euboea. These columns supported arches, creating lateral porticos that provided shade and shelter. As visitors stroll along the Colonnaded Street, they can observe the intricate details of the columns and imagine the vibrant life that once filled this space. The street was a bustling thoroughfare lined with shops and public buildings. The route of the street was intentionally bent to accommodate the pre-existing Baths of Hadrian. The street terminated in a square near the Nymphaeum, an ornamental fountain, which served as a decorative public space. Today, the Colonnaded Street is a key attraction within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna. It offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural significance. Exploring the street allows visitors to connect with the heart of Roman history and appreciate the grandeur of this ancient city.

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