Temple of Croxton Forge
Moche (100–800 CE)·Moche·🇱🇾 Fezzan, Libya
About
About Temple of Croxton Forge
Temple of Croxton Forge in Fezzan, Libya is a Moche (100–800 CE) temple complex attributed to Moche culture. Systematically investigated through aerial LiDAR and fieldwalking, it presents a monumental core with workshop zone. Construction employs dry-stone masonry and demonstrates distinct phasing. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Moche temple-complex with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of monuments
- 02Water management and resilience
Theories
- 01Defensive refuge and tribal capital
- 02Ritual landscape and ancestral veneration
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 175 CE
- Period
- Moche (100–800 CE)
- Culture
- Moche
- Purpose
- Necropolis and ritual
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 175 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 300 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 433 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
2010
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
25.9568° N · 12.0915° E · 47 m · 3 mapped features
Enclosure Wall
courtyardBurial zone — tumuli
25.9552° N · 12.0924° EBurial Cluster
templePrimary temple complex at Temple of Croxton Forge — ceremonial avenue
25.9587° N · 12.0928° ETemple Platform
rampartHydraulic feature — well
25.9574° N · 12.0935° E