The project aims to understand the origins of Lixus: it has confirmed the antiquity of its occupation, from the Phoenician period. Between 1995 and 2004 the project has concentrated on the area known as the Caroubier, excavated by M. Tarradell during the 1950’s. The results of his excavations suggested that we undertake and examination of the same area, and, in effect, we have now revealed the earliest stratigraphy of the site. These are structures and layers dated to the eighth century BCE. Other structures belong to the Mauretanian period, including a paved courtyard house of the second century BCE and a warehouse for amphorae, along with metallurgical activities.
From 2005, the mission has undertaken the excavation of the area known as the ‘Maison Montalban’, at the top of the hill, southwest of the area of the temples. Excavations have revealed the existence of important archaeological deposits running from the seventh century BCE to the Merinid period. Publication of the results of these campaigns is underway.