Constantine, Algeria

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Constantine, Algeria

Region: Constantine

---

Geographic Coordinates: 36.365000, 6.614700

Population: 448374

Language: Arabic

---

Constantine is a city located in northeastern Algeria, Situated on a plateau that overlooks the Rhumel River. It is the third largest city in Algeria and has a population of over 450, 000 people. The city has been inhabited since ancient times and was an important center of trade during Roman times. One of the most notable features of Constantine is its location on top of a cliff overlooking the Rhumel River. The old town, Known as Medina, Is built on this cliff and features narrow streets and alleys that wind their way up to the top.

From here, Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the river valley below. The city boasts several historic landmarks dating back to different periods in its history. One such landmark is the Palace of Ahmed Bey which was built by one of Constantine’s last rulers before it fell under French rule. Its architecture reflects both Ottoman and European influences with beautiful gardens surrounding it. Another impressive landmark in Constantine is Sidi M’Cid Bridge – a suspension bridge spanning across Rhumel River which connects Medina with other parts of the city.

It was built by French engineers in 1912 and remains an impressive feat even today. Constantine also houses several museums that showcase its rich cultural heritage including Cirta Museum housing artifacts from ancient Roman times as well as Islamic art from later periods; National Museum Cirta holding prehistoric artifacts including fossils from dinosaurs found locally.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy sampling traditional Algerian cuisine like couscous or tajines made with lamb or chicken cooked with vegetables spiced with cumin or coriander seeds for flavoring at many restaurants throughout town serving these dishes alongside other local specialties like brik – pastry filled with egg, Tuna or meat. Constantine boasts great historical significance reflected through its architecture landmarks museums & cuisine making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking to explore this fascinating Algerian City’s many attractions while enjoying stunning views of Rhumel River valley from atop the cliffside Medina.

---

---

1. The Suspension Bridge of Sidi M’Cid is an iconic symbol of Constantine and a must-see tourist attraction.
2. The Palace of Ahmed Bey, built in the 19th century, now serves as a museum showcasing Algerian art and culture.
3. The Monument aux Morts is a war memorial honoring Algerian soldiers who fought in World War I and II.
4. Timgad Roman Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour outside of Constantine, offer visitors a glimpse into Algeria’s rich history.
5. Emir Abdelkader Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Algeria and boasts intricate tilework and stunning architecture.
6. Cirta Museum features artifacts from ancient Roman times as well as Islamic art and culture from throughout Algeria’s history.
7. Ain El Bey Park is a popular green space located in the heart of Constantine that offers stunning views over the city, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

---

1. Textile manufacturing
2. Food processing and packaging
3. Construction materials production
4. Chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing
5. Agriculture and agribusinesses
6. Tourism and hospitality
7. Education services
8. Retail trade
9. Transportation services
10. Healthcare services

Constantine is also home to several large companies such as:

• Cevital Group, a conglomerate that operates in various sectors including food processing, retail, real estate, and healthcare
• SNTF (National Railway Transport Company), which provides rail transportation throughout Algeria
• Sonatrach, the national oil company of Algeria which has operations in Constantine as well as other parts of the country

---



Noteable History

1. The city of Constantine in Algeria has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, where it was known as Cirta and served as the capital of Numidia.
2. King Juba II, a ruler of Numidia in the first century BC, constructed several important buildings in Cirta such as a palace and library.
3. Over time, Constantine became part of various Berber kingdoms after being conquered by Arab armies during the 7th century AD.
4. The Ottomans took control of Constantine in 1517 and ruled until French forces defeated them in 1837.
5. Following their victory over the Ottomans, France established their own colony in Algeria and took control of Constantine.
6. Ahmed Bey fought against French colonization during the early 19th century as an Algerian leader.
7. In 1845, Algerian resistance fighters battled against French forces near Constantine at Sidi Brahim under General Thomas Robert Bugeaud’s command.
8. Emir Abdelkader led Algerian resistance against French colonialism during mid-19th century timespan.
9. After World War II concluded, Algeria’s independence movement gained momentum and resulted with Algeria gaining independence from France on July 5th,1962
10. Mohamed Boudiaf played an essential role for Algeria’s struggle for independence from France; he later served briefly as president before being assassinated by Islamic extremists June1992

---



Museums and Things To See

1. The Cirta Museum
2. The Palace of Ahmed Bey
3. The Emir Abdelkader Mosque and Mausoleum
4. The Tassili n’Ajjer National Park
5. The Constantine Suspension Bridge
6. The Monument aux Morts
7. The Abderrahmane Khelifa Museum
8. La Medersa Mosque
9. Stade Hamlaoui – a football stadium with stunning views of the city.
10. The Great Mosque of Constantine

---



---



Sports Teams

1. CS Constantine: Founded in 1898, CS Constantine is the oldest football club in Algeria and one of the most successful clubs in the country. The team has won several national championships and cups.
2. MO Constantine: Another popular football club in Constantine, MO Constantine was founded in 1921 and has a strong fan base. The team has won several regional championships.
3. MC Alger (Constantinois): MC Alger (Constantinois) is a basketball club based in Constantine that was founded in 1947. The team has won several national championships and cups.
4. ES Sétif (Constantinois): ES Sétif (Constantinois) is another basketball club based in Constantine that was founded in 1956. The team has also won several national championships and cups.
5. JSM Skikda (Constantinois): JSM Skikda (Constantinois) is a handball club based in Constantine that was founded in 1962. The team has won several regional championships and cups.

---

---



Cultural Events

1. Constantine International Film Festival
2. Mawlid Ennabaoui (Celebration of the Birth of Prophet Mohammed)
3. National Day of Remembrance and Mourning (August 20th)
4. National Independence Day (July 5th)
5. International Festival of Arabic Music
6. Constantine Cultural Week
7. Sidi Rached Moussem (Religious festival celebrating a local saint)
8. Timgad International Festival of Music and Dance
9. Constantine Book Fair
10. Algerian National Heritage Day (February 18th)

---



Cuisine

• Chakhchoukha: A traditional dish made with broken semolina, vegetables, and meat.
• El Bey: A restaurant that specializes in Algerian cuisine, including couscous, tajines, and grilled meats.
• La Scala: A seafood restaurant that offers fresh fish dishes.
• Les Trois Roses: A restaurant that serves traditional Algerian dishes such as merguez sausages and briks (stuffed pastry).
• Le Raisin d’Or: A bakery that sells traditional Algerian pastries such as makrouds (date-filled cookies) and baklava.
• El Djazairia: A restaurant that offers a mix of Mediterranean and North African cuisine.
• Restaurant L’Escalier: An upscale French restaurant with a view of the city’s iconic suspension bridge.
• Cafe de la Gare: A cafe located near the train station that serves coffee, tea, sandwiches, and pastries.
• Restaurant Dar El Beida: An elegant dining establishment known for its lamb dishes cooked over an open fire pit called a mechoui.
• Restaurant Chez Mimi et Rachid : This is a family-run eatery serving up delicious home-style meals like couscous or tagine stew made with tender lamb or chicken along with fresh vegetables like carrots or potatoes.

---



Parks and Recreation

1. Cirta Park: This large park features a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and sports fields.
2. Ahmed Zabana National Park: Located just outside of Constantine, this park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Bardo Museum and Garden: This museum houses a collection of ancient artifacts and also features a beautiful garden with fountains.
4. Emir Abdelkader Park: This park is named after the famous Algerian leader and offers a peaceful setting for picnics or strolls.
5. La Medina de Constantine: This historic area of the city includes several parks and gardens as well as traditional markets (souks) and cafes.
6. Golf Club de Constantine: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy this 18-hole course located in the hills above the city.
7. Hammam Debagh Hot Springs: Visitors can relax in these natural hot springs located just outside of Constantine.
8. Parc National du Tassili N’Ajjer: Adventure seekers can explore this vast national park featuring sand dunes, rock formations, and ancient cave paintings (though it is located quite far from Constantine).

---



Travel And Be Free.

---