Leptis Magna and Sabratha were the other two key Roman cities (along with Oea) that gave both the capital and its province – Tripolitania – their names. Sabratha was settled by the Phoenicians in the 4th century BC, but reached its pinnacle during the heyday of Roman colonization. Covered by the wind-blown sands of the region, it was only rediscovered by archaeologists about a hundred years ago. Its most significant monument is the theatre, the largest in Roman Africa and the jewel in Sabratha's splendid crown. Leptis, Libya's most famous classical attraction was arguably the most important Roman city in North Africa and the Middle East. Today it is one of the most spectacular ancient sites on the Mediterranean. It includes the magnificent triumphal Arch of Septimus Severus built to glorify Libya's home-grown Roman Emperor, and the stupendous open-air Severan Forum, the core of Septimus Severus's daring transformation of Leptis in the early third century. This expansive rubble strewn space surrounded by high walls and colonnades is one of those stunning sights that will imprint itself for ever on your mind.