TIMGAD & CONSTANTINE
Key Takeaways
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The incredible sunset of Constantine. Arriving at the Ruins of Timgad, I could see that the car park was empty; not a single person seemed to be here, apart from the police escort who was there to meet me. They immediately questioned how we had arrived on our own, but again, they were happy and left us to our own devices. Algeria is by no means dangerous, so it’s just precautionary. The guide and driver were fantastic, sharing a similar personality to mine, and were never rushed.
THE SUNSET IN CONSTANTINE IS TYPICAL OF THE BEST IN AFRICA
WHERE IS CONSTANTINE?
MOSAICS
The ruins themselves were breathtaking: mosaics that looked like they were painted yesterday, stone arches that whispered stories from nearly 2,000 years ago, and a museum that showcased artefacts from the reign of Emperor Trajan.
THE CHAKHTCHOUKHA CHALLENGE
From here, it was a 1-hour and 30-minute drive to Constantine in Algeria, where we had some food at a restaurant called Rais, which was incredible! I was recommended the Chakhtchoukha, which is a lot of stewed bread, but it was amazing! I was sweating so much, I was happy to leave some on the plate until the guides said they had yet to see someone finish this dish. So naturally, I picked up my fork and scoffed the rest, never one to pass on a challenge!
CONSTANTINE: CITY OF BRIDGES, GORGES & LAYERS
We then headed for a quick drive and tour of Constantine, as it was getting late. The town is just incredible, and I can safely say I have never seen a place like it! I remember writing my page and saying, No matter how much we see of the world, there will always be magic waiting to be discovered. This just proved it as Constantine left me speechless!
Algeria Photos & Experiences
- Walking across the Rhummel Gorge Bridges, I felt the history beneath my feet. Many were built during the French colonial era, including the iconic Sidi M’Cid
- Bridge (1912), which still towers proudly over the gorge.
Watching the sunset at the Monument Aux Morts was unforgettable. Locals gathered around me, chatting and snapping photos as the sky turned gold. - I wandered through streets lined with Ottoman and French architecture, a fascinating blend that tells the story of Constantine’s layered past.
- Evenings here are simple but special — I joined locals in cafés and ice cream shops, where conversations flow easily over coffee or dessert instead of alcohol.
TIMGAD RUINS….
- The Timgad ruins are almost 2000 years old!
- They were built during the reign of Emperor Trajan.
- It covers an area of over 220 acres.
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Travel Note: If you’re looking for something unexpected, you can even try an ice skating rink in Constantine, Algeria. It’s a quirky contrast to the city’s ancient bridges and ruins, and a fun way to experience local leisure beyond the usual sightseeing. |
SUNSET AT MONUMENT AUX MORTS
We stopped at what seemed like every corner, but the best was left for last when we ventured up to the Monument Aux Morts. As the mouth of the gorge faces west, there are incredible views of the sunset from almost anywhere in the city. This is where everyone gathers, chills out, and takes photos. As alcohol really doesn’t exist here, you’ll see a lot of people outside chatting over a coffee, lunch or ice cream, but today it was a sunset and undoubtedly one of the best I have seen!
MORE ICE CREAM
After a number of photos, it was back down hill and to the ice cream shop. Wassim was quick to tell the guide here how much I liked the ice cream shop he took me to in Algiers. The guide was well up for the challenge and took me to his local ice cream shop for the test. In all fairness, it might have had a good chance if the server hadn’t lumped a load of caramel sauce on it!
Checking into the Ibis tonight for a cold shower, it’s a been a hell of a long day!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Constantine had proven my belief that no matter how much of the world we see, there’s always magic waiting to be discovered.
FAQ’s
Where is the world’s longest ice rink?
The Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa, Canada, is the longest, stretching over 7.8 km.
How much is Al Nasr ice skating?
Sessions at Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai cost about AED 30–40, plus skate rentals.
How long is one session of ice skating?
Most rinks worldwide offer sessions lasting 45–60 minutes.
Is Constantine worth visiting?
Yes, it’s one of Algeria’s most unique cities, known for bridges, gorge views, and sunsets.
What is Constantine, Algeria, famous for?
Its suspension bridges, Monument Aux Morts, Timgad ruins, and food like Chakhtchoukha.
What is the nicest city in Algeria?
Many say Algiers, but Constantine is often considered the most photogenic and unique.
What is the most famous landmark in Algeria?
The Timgad Ruins (UNESCO), Casbah of Algiers, and Monument Aux Morts in Constantine.
What is the history of Constantine in Algeria?
Originally Cirta, rebuilt by Emperor Constantine in 311 AD, it has Roman, Arab, Ottoman, and French layers.
What was the Constantine Plan in Algeria?
A French initiative (1958–1961) aimed to modernise Algeria through infrastructure and education, but ultimately proved politically unsuccessful.
Who built the bridges in Constantine, Algeria?
Most were built during the French colonial era, including the iconic Sidi M’Cid Bridge (1912)
NEXT UP
Final day in Algeria before flying to Marseille. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
134/229
This post is part of The Algeria Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
Question Time
- Have you been to Timgad or Constantine?
- What was your favourite experience?
- Did you like the locals?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
