Back to Map
Libya

Olbia, Libya

Byzantine town with mosaic churches

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Olbia, also known as Theodorias, is an archaeological site located in the Cyrenaica region of modern Libya. Established initially as a Roman and Byzantine town, it was later refounded in 539 CE by the Byzantine Empress Theodora after its destruction by the Vandals and incursions by Laguatan nomads. The site is renowned for its two Byzantine churches, one of which is now part of the Qasr Libya Museum. Notably, the location features fifty beautiful mosaic panels that depict the known world and commemorate the town's refoundation. These mosaics, along with the churches, are significant indicators of the site's historical and cultural value, reflecting the religious and artistic endeavors of the Byzantine period.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Olbia, Libya

FileMosaic_Ancient_Lighthouse_of_Alexandria.jpg
FileTheodoriaslibya.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Castles

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches

Artistic and Decorative Features

Mosaics

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Libya
Source
Wikipedia