Lamta, ancient Leptiminus, lies about ten kilometres south of the city of Monastir,. Founded by sailors come from Phoenicia around the XIIth century BC, this trading post soon became one of the most important and prosperous of the Mediterranean, thanks particularly to the trade in olive oil produced in its hinterland. The city maintained its standing under the Roman empire aligning itself with Rome against Carthage and subsequently with Julius Caesar against his rival Pompey.

The modern city was built on the ancient site which means that whenever there is construction work or civil engineering works large quantities of vestiges and objects are found that have now been collected in a museum built in 1992. Through a circuit organised according to themes, the museum traces the origins of Leptiminus’ history. The Punic funerary furnishings shed light on the major aspects of economic, social, cultural and religious life, as well as on the different techniques in use during that period. Besides the magnificent mosaic pavements, a Christian sarcophagus and its sculpted marble cover representing Christ surrounded by figures and symbols is considered to be the museum’s key exhibit.

The museum’s garden contains many vestiges, including, in particular, the remains of imposing baths.