Djémila
Location: Djémila, Algeria
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Djémila is an ancient Roman city located in the mountainous region of northern Algeria. The city is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and is considered to be one of the best examples of Roman architecture in North Africa. The ruins include a forum, a triumphal arch, temples, public buildings, and private houses. The city also features a museum that showcases artifacts from the site.
Prominent Features: The ruins of Djémila feature a variety of Roman architectural styles, including Corinthian, Ionic, and Doric. The city's most prominent features include the forum, which was the center of political and economic activity in the city, and the triumphal arch, which was built to commemorate the emperor Caracalla's victories over the Parthians. Other notable features include the Temple of Venus, the Basilica, and the House of the Knight.
History: Djémila was founded in the 1st century AD as a military settlement by the Roman Emperor Nerva. The city grew rapidly and became an important center of commerce and culture in North Africa. It was known for its olive oil production and was a major exporter of the product. The city was abandoned in the 8th century after the Arab invasion of North Africa. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and became a popular destination for tourists and archaeologists.
Family-Friendly Activities: During the summer months, Djémila hosts a number of cultural events and festivals, including music performances, traditional dance shows, and food fairs.
Fun Fact: Djémila was known as Cuicul during the Roman period and was one of the most important Roman cities in North Africa. The city was home to several famous philosophers, including Apuleius, who wrote the novel "The Golden Ass."
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Djémila is 400 Algerian dinars (approximately 3 USD) per person. Guided tours are available for an additional fee.
How to Reach it: Djémila is located approximately 100 km east of Algiers. Here are some ways to reach it:
By Car: You can drive to Djémila from Algiers in approximately 2 hours. The drive is relatively easy and straightforward.
By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Algiers and Djémila. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs around 500 Algerian dinars (approximately 4 USD).
By Taxi: Taxis are available from Algiers to Djémila. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 6,000 Algerian dinars (approximately 45 USD).
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses near Djémila, including the Hotel Djemila and the Hotel Kerdada. You can also stay in the nearby town of Setif, which has a wider range of accommodations.
Next Stop: Timgad
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Djémila is an ancient Roman city located in the mountainous region of northern Algeria. The city is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and is considered to be one of the best examples of Roman architecture in North Africa. The ruins include a forum, a triumphal arch, temples, public buildings, and private houses. The city also features a museum that showcases artifacts from the site.
Prominent Features: The ruins of Djémila feature a variety of Roman architectural styles, including Corinthian, Ionic, and Doric. The city's most prominent features include the forum, which was the center of political and economic activity in the city, and the triumphal arch, which was built to commemorate the emperor Caracalla's victories over the Parthians. Other notable features include the Temple of Venus, the Basilica, and the House of the Knight.
History: Djémila was founded in the 1st century AD as a military settlement by the Roman Emperor Nerva. The city grew rapidly and became an important center of commerce and culture in North Africa. It was known for its olive oil production and was a major exporter of the product. The city was abandoned in the 8th century after the Arab invasion of North Africa. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and became a popular destination for tourists and archaeologists.
Family-Friendly Activities: During the summer months, Djémila hosts a number of cultural events and festivals, including music performances, traditional dance shows, and food fairs.
Fun Fact: Djémila was known as Cuicul during the Roman period and was one of the most important Roman cities in North Africa. The city was home to several famous philosophers, including Apuleius, who wrote the novel "The Golden Ass."
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Djémila is 400 Algerian dinars (approximately 3 USD) per person. Guided tours are available for an additional fee.
How to Reach it: Djémila is located approximately 100 km east of Algiers. Here are some ways to reach it:
By Car: You can drive to Djémila from Algiers in approximately 2 hours. The drive is relatively easy and straightforward.
By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Algiers and Djémila. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs around 500 Algerian dinars (approximately 4 USD).
By Taxi: Taxis are available from Algiers to Djémila. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 6,000 Algerian dinars (approximately 45 USD).
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses near Djémila, including the Hotel Djemila and the Hotel Kerdada. You can also stay in the nearby town of Setif, which has a wider range of accommodations.
Next Stop: Timgad