Annaba, Algeria
Region: Annaba
Geographic Coordinates: 36.900000, 7.766700
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 35.0°C (59°F to 95°F)
Climate: Annaba has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.
Population: 257359
Language: Arabic
Annaba, Also known as Bône, Is a coastal city situated in the northeastern region of Algeria. It is the fourth largest city in Algeria with a population of around 600, 000 people. The city boasts beautiful beaches, Stunning mountain ranges and rich cultural heritage. One of Annaba’s main attractions is its beautiful beaches which stretch for miles along the coastline. These golden sands are perfect for sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Les Andalouses Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Annaba and offers stunning views of Cap de Garde Mountain.
Annaba’s historic sites such as Hippo Regius ruins date back to ancient Roman times and provide insight into life during that time period. The Saint-Augustine Basilica located on top of a hill overlooking Annaba’s bay is another significant landmark worth visiting. For nature lovers, There are several parks within easy reach from downtown Annaba including El-Kala National Park which boasts more than 50 species of birds including flamingos, Pelicans and herons. Food enthusiasts will enjoy exploring local cuisine with traditional dishes such as couscous with lamb or chicken tagine served at many local restaurants throughout town.
There are also plenty of cafes where you can sit back with a cup of tea or coffee while taking in stunning views over the Mediterranean sea. shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy with numerous souks (markets) selling everything from spices to handicrafts made by local artisans. You can haggle over prices while browsing through colorful stalls filled with exotic goods making it an unforgettable experience.
Overall, Annaba has something for everyone – from its stunning beaches and historic ruins to its delicious cuisine and vibrant markets – making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Algeria.
Important Landmarks
- Basilica of St. Augustine
- Hippo Regius
- Le Cours de la Révolution (Main Street)
- Cap de Garde
- Sidi Salem Beach
- Ain Achir Beach
- Mosque of Salah Bey
- The Old Town (La Casbah)
- Museum of Antiquities
- Boulevard du 1er Novembre
Primary Industries
- Petrochemicals: The city has several petrochemical plants such as the Sidi Amar refinery and the Asmidal fertilizer plant.
- Manufacturing: Annaba has a significant manufacturing sector that produces textiles, cement, paper products, and food processing.
- Mining: The region around Annaba is rich in iron ore deposits and other minerals.
- Tourism: Annaba’s location on the Mediterranean coast makes it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun and sea.
- Transportation: The city boasts an important port that handles both cargo and passenger traffic.
- Education: Several universities and research institutes including the University of Badji Mokhtar-Annaba call Annaba home.
- Healthcare: There are several hospitals and medical centers in the city providing healthcare services to its residents as well as visitors from neighboring areas.
Noteable History
- The city of Annaba has a rich history, having been founded by the Phoenicians in the 12th century BC and subsequently occupied by various civilizations such as the Romans and Arabs.
- There are several historical landmarks in Annaba, including the Basilica of St Augustine which was built on the site where St Augustine once lived and preached during the 19th century.
- During World War II, Annaba played a crucial role as an important port for Allied forces in North Africa.
- Ahmed Ben Bella, a prominent Algerian revolutionary leader, was born near Annaba in Maghnia in 1916.
- Albert Camus, a French philosopher, spent part of his childhood in Annaba and wrote extensively about it in his work The First Man.
- The Battle of Tlemcen occurred near Annaba during the Algerian War of Independence between French forces and Algerian rebels.
- In 1988, Algeria experienced widespread protests against economic hardship and political repression; these demonstrations were particularly intense in Annaba.
- In recent years, Annaba has become renowned for its vibrant music scene with many popular musicians either originating from or performing regularly within the city itself.
Museums and Things To See
- Basilica of St. Augustine
- Musée d’Art Moderne d’Annaba
- Le Cours de la Révolution
- Hippone Roman Theatre
- Musée des Ruines Romaines d’Hippone
- Mosque of Sidi Bou Merouane
- Ain Achir Beach
- Cap de Garde Lighthouse
- El Kala National Park
- La Grotte du Chameau (Camel Cave)
Sports Teams
- Annaba, Algeria is renowned for its football (soccer) team, USM Annaba.
- The club originated in 1936 and has enjoyed a prosperous history in Algerian football.
- They have been crowned champions of the Algerian Cup twice, in 1989 and 1997, and have also finished as runners-up three times.
- Apart from USM Annaba, there are several other sports teams that represent the city in various sports such as basketball, handball, volleyball etc.
- However, their histories are not as notable or well-documented as that of USM Annaba.
Cultural Events
- The International Festival of Annaba is a cultural event held annually in July, featuring a variety of activities such as music, dance, theater performances and art exhibitions.
- The Mouloudia Festival is celebrated every year in November or December to honor the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It includes religious ceremonies, traditional Algerian music performances and parades.
- The Annaba Film Festival takes place in September and showcases international films as well as works by Algerian filmmakers.
- November 1st marks the National Day of Remembrance, which commemorates those who lost their lives during Algeria’s war for independence from France.
- The International Mediterranean Theater Festival brings together theater companies from various regions around the Mediterranean to perform plays at different venues throughout Annaba.
- Celebrated every summer in July or August, Sidi Boumerouane Cultural Week features traditional music concerts, dance performances and poetry readings among other cultural activities.
- El Mouled Ennabawi Celebration is a religious event that honors Prophet Mohammed’s birthday (Mawlid), typically observed between October 28th to December 27th each year depending on Islamic calendar calculation methods used by different countries.
- February 18th is observed as National Day of Memory for Martyrs each year to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives fighting for Algeria’s independence from France during the Algerian War (1954-1962).
Cuisine
Algerian Cuisine
- Couscous: A staple dish made with semolina, vegetables, and meat.
- Merguez: Spicy sausage made from beef or lamb.
- Chakchouka: A dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers and spices.
- Brik: A pastry filled with tuna or egg and fried until crispy.
- Makroudh: A sweet pastry filled with dates or almonds.
Popular Restaurants in Annaba
- Le Rendez-Vous: This restaurant offers a mix of Algerian and French cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
- Restaurant El Djazairia: Known for its seafood dishes and beautiful sea views.
- Restaurant Le Tassili : Offers traditional Algerian dishes such as couscous and tagine in a relaxed setting.
- Restaurant La Cantine : Offers international cuisine including pizza, burgers etc.
- Restaurant Le Zephyr : Specializes in grilled meats such as merguez sausage and kebabs.
- Le Cours de la Révolution: This is a public park located in the heart of Annaba, popular for jogging, walking, and relaxing.
- Les Jardins de l’Empereur: These gardens are located near the city center and offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- La Corniche: This is a scenic drive along the coast of Annaba that offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding hills.
- Plage Rizi Amor: This beach is located just outside of Annaba and offers swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
- Parc National d’El Kala: This national park is located about an hour from Annaba and offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Golf Club d’Annaba: This golf course is located on the outskirts of town with 18 holes providing beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Stade 19 Mai 1956: A stadium hosting soccer matches throughout the year which can be fun to watch local teams compete in.
- Musée Hippone et Archéologie de Bône: A museum showcasing artifacts from ancient Roman times in Algeria’s history including mosaics, sculptures, pottery etc.,
- Cinéma Royal : A cinema hall screening mostly French language movies but also some English movies with subtitles occasionally screened here.