Byzacena

Byzacena was a Roman province in North Africa, roughly corresponding to modern-day Tunisia. It was established by Emperor Diocletian around 300 CE, formed from the southern and eastern parts of the older province of Africa Vetus. The region was known for its fertile land and became a significant administrative center, with Hadrumetum (modern Sousse) serving as its capital. Byzacena experienced prosperity under Roman rule, with flourishing agriculture and urban development, and a notable Christian presence that produced influential Church Fathers like Tertullian, Cyprian, and St. Augustine. The province's fortunes declined with the Vandal invasion in the 5th century and later the Arab conquest.12