Conservation and restoration of Roman heritage in Tunisia: The case of the House of Masks ( Sousse)

This thesis is part of a reflection on the conservation and restoration of the Roman archaeological heritage in Tunisia, using the House of Masks in Sousse as a case study. This site illustrates the importance of Roman domestic architecture and bears witness to the country's rich history, with traces of Roman and Byzantine occupation. Located near the Medina of Sousse, the House of Masks is a significant example of the current challenges facing the preservation of Tunisian archaeological sites. Discovered during rescue excavations in the 1962-1963s by Louis Foucher, it features an exceptional mosaic, the remains of a triclinium, and a staircase attesting to an upper floor, but today suffers from significant degradation due to time, unsuitable restoration techniques and lack of maintenance. The objective of the research is to study the state of conservation, propose solutions for intervention, and enhance the value of this fragile heritage for future generations. It is based on a rigorous method: bibliographical research, visual documentation, field study, and collaboration with heritage institutions (National Heritage Institute (INP), Archaeological Museum of Sousse, Sousse Town Hall ). This work highlights the urgent need to implement safeguarding strategies in line with national and international standards, using a multidisciplinary approach combining archaeology, history, architecture and conservation. The House of Masks site thus becomes a concrete example for thinking about better heritage management in Tunisia.