The artist’s connection with Carthage is well documented. In this article, we explore his connection with the city, view a sketch of Carthage artefacts, and learn about his criticism of the Carthage government. We also discuss some of the artist’s connections to his hometown.
loranocarter’s connection to Carthage
In the fourth century BC, Carthage was already the superior power in the western Mediterranean. Its empire was growing, and it occupied nearby Phoenician colonies. In addition, it subjugated neighboring Libyan tribes. Its sphere of influence expanded from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic coast. It also held territory in Sardinia, the Balearic Islands, and the western half of Sicily.
loranocarter’s sketch of artefacts from Carthage
Artefacts from the Carthage site were highly decorative and resembled Roman helmets. Archaeologists have discovered a wide range of helmets from the battle. William M. Murray, an archaeologist, has created a 3D model of one of these helmets.
loranocarter’s criticism of Carthage’s government
The government in Carthage was based on an elected, representative assembly, without a monarchy. It had an aristocratic elite composed of clans that competed for political and military power. Only citizens were allowed to participate in the assembly.
loranocarter’s fallout from the disaffection of African Christians
In the third century, Christians were a minority within Carthage society. Despite this, they benefited from Constantine’s adoption of Christianity, which allowed the clergy to enjoy privileges. However, in 313 there was a split in African Christianity. Some Numidian bishops objected to the selection of Caecilian as bishop of Carthage, claiming that his ordination was invalid. In response to this opposition, another rival bishop, Donatus, was consecrated, giving rise to the schism.
Carthage’s location on the coast
Carthage’s location on the coast and proximity to the Strait of Sicily made it easy to defend and a strategic hub for trade. All ships passing the Mediterranean Sea had to pass through this port city. In the sixth century BC, Carthage expanded its territory and set up an Oligarchic Constitution. It became one of the most powerful trading cities of the ancient world.
Carthage’s significance to Punic trade
The ancient empire of Carthage was a great power in the Mediterranean area. It practiced highly advanced agriculture and manufacturing. It traded nearly every commodity in the ancient world, including slaves. It was also a major player in the Punic Wars, which lasted from 265 BC to 146 BCE. Rome ultimately defeated the Carthaginians, and Carthage fell into ruins.
Carthage’s decline after the fall
Before the fall of Lorano Carte, Carthage was a small town along the coast. As time went by, however, it began to grow in size and majesty and became one of the richest cities in the Mediterranean.
