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The Roman colonial city, Timgad.

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The remains of a Roman city were discovered buried in the sands of northern Algeria in 1881.

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The city, known as Timgad, was found just as it had been left 2,000 years ago.

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Numerous Roman structures were built to demonstrate the power and prosperity of the empire at that time.

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Stored rainwater and irrigated water was brought here.

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Along the walls of this open area are bench-like chairs.

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Each seat has a round hole. This, in fact, is a public lavatory.

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Rainwater flowed through the channel below and flushed the human waste away.

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The water and sewage systems are especially remarkable.

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A notable feature of Timgad is that all the houses are the same size.

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Why was the town designed in a grid system?

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Dividing land equally among Romans and Africans and promoting equality would appeal to all citizens of the city.

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Timgad was the embodiment of Roman power, but it also existed for another hidden political purpose.

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When Timgad was built, it was declared that only Roman citizens would be allowed to live there.

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Roman citizenship was granted to any man completing 25 years of military service and his son.

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People wanting to benefit from comfortable living conditions and for the sake of their children willingly joined the army.

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Timgad was a city built for soldiers who gained citizenship by fighting for Rome.

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The reward for enduring a harsh military life was the prospect of leading an elegant life in Timgad.

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In the corner of the public square are the remains of some ancient graffiti which reads,

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to hunt, bathe, play games and laugh, this is life.