Ti'vallée
The great basilica of Tipaza, often called the basilique judiciaire
The great basilica of Tipaza, often called the basilique judiciaire, occupies the upper town, close to the forum. Its orientation diverges from the square of the forum, forming an angle of about 30°, which suggests a later addition to the urban plan.
It presents the classical basilica layout: a central nave flanked by aisles, terminating in a semicircular apse. What makes this building exceptional is the mosaic that once covered the floor of the apse, a rare case of a figurative pavement in such a position. The mosaic depicts captives in chains, interpreted as a commemoration of Roman victories.
Archaeological sondages indicate that the basilica was constructed not earlier than the Severan period (late 2nd–early 3rd century CE). It later became a central civic monument, reflecting both the administrative role of the basilica in Roman law and its symbolic function as a place of public authority.
Its presence alongside the forum, theatre, and baths illustrates the monumental expansion of Tipaza during its apogee as a colonia Aelia Augusta, marking the city as one of the key Roman centers of Mauretania Caesariensis.
The great basilica of Tipaza, often called the basilique judiciaire
The great basilica of Tipaza, often called the basilique judiciaire, occupies the upper town, close to the forum. Its orientation diverges from the square of the forum, forming an angle of about 30°, which suggests a later addition to the urban plan.
It presents the classical basilica layout: a central nave flanked by aisles, terminating in a semicircular apse. What makes this building exceptional is the mosaic that once covered the floor of the apse, a rare case of a figurative pavement in such a position. The mosaic depicts captives in chains, interpreted as a commemoration of Roman victories.
Archaeological sondages indicate that the basilica was constructed not earlier than the Severan period (late 2nd–early 3rd century CE). It later became a central civic monument, reflecting both the administrative role of the basilica in Roman law and its symbolic function as a place of public authority.
Its presence alongside the forum, theatre, and baths illustrates the monumental expansion of Tipaza during its apogee as a colonia Aelia Augusta, marking the city as one of the key Roman centers of Mauretania Caesariensis.