Conserving and managing mosaics by reburial: safeguarding the ‘Baths of Regio VII’ at Sabratha, Libya

Abstract

This article presents a mosaic reburial in the Baths of Regio VII at Sabratha (Libya) which took place in April 2025 after a long gestation. It documents the practical, material and logistical dimensions of safeguarding vulnerable pavements in situ which have been long exposed to the environment with limited maintenance. The article, produced by the MaLiCH project in collaboration with the Libyan Department of Antiquities, discusses the history of the bath complex, its condition and its impact on decision-making for conservation. It describes the rationale for the intervention, the steps taken to deliver it and the value of mentoring and public engagement. It also reflects on the challenges in conflict-affected countries where specific expertise may be limited. By documenting the process, its outcomes and limitations, the case study offers practical evidence and theoretical approaches which can inform future interventions in comparable archaeological contexts.