SUFFETE.

The article focuses on various aspects of ancient Carthage from the 7th century BCE to the 2nd century CE, including its political system, social customs, and cultural artifacts. Carthage transitioned from monarchy to a government led by elected magistrates called suffetes, who were chosen from the elite class and often governed in pairs to balance power and manage domestic and military affairs. Distinctive cultural elements included conical caps linked to the Phoenician god Melqart, beards symbolizing strength, and the use of Tyrian purple dye, a luxury associated with wealth and royalty. Additionally, glass paste necklaces depicting male heads, possibly representing gods or serving as protective amulets, have been found in Carthage and other Phoenician sites. [Extracted from the article]