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Susan T. Stevens
Excavation and Analysis of an Underground Christian Burial Complex at Lamta (Tunisia)
The Christian complex consists of a building 5 m underground, used for burials in the 4th through 6th centuries A.D., attached to catacomb tunnels untouched since antiquity. The intact tombs of the building and tunnels are ideal for exploring the traditions and social structures of one Chrstian community through its burial practices. Information comes both from the many beautiful mosaic markers of the tombs, including inscriptions and even portraits of the deceased, and from the osteological remains. Since the underground complex was part of a larger 2nd-6th century cemetery, its Christian identity can be understood as part of the tapestry of Roman burial practices.
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