Discover Constantine

Constantine: A 3,000-Year-Old Legacy in Stone and Sky Constantine is not just a city—it’s a living chronicle of over three millennia of history.

Built upon a massive rocky plateau surrounded by deep gorges carved by the Rhumel River, it has long been a fortress, a cultural capital, and a spiritual landmark. Known as Cirta in antiquity, Constantine has seen the rise and fall of Berber (Amazigh) kingdoms, Punic trade, Roman conquest, Arab-Muslim civilization, Ottoman rule, and French colonization—each leaving behind visible layers of memory in its stones, its architecture, and its soul.

 A Journey Through Civilizations Amazigh Era: The cradle of powerful Berber dynasties like the Massyli and Massaesyli, Cirta was once the capital of King Syphax, a major figure in the Punic Wars. Punic Period: As a strategic ally of Carthage, the city became a bustling trade center. Roman Rule: After its annexation by Rome, Cirta became a Roman colonia and a model of urban development, with amphitheaters, aqueducts, and temples. Byzantine & Arab-Islamic Influence: From the 7th century, Constantine flourished as a center of learning and faith. Ottoman Grandeur: The medina, mosques, palaces, and hammams bear witness to centuries of Ottoman presence. French Colonization: From 1837, French influence reshaped the urban landscape, adding new boulevards, bridges, and administrative buildings.

Nature Meets Legend: The Rock and Its Wonders Constantine is built on and around a giant natural rock—an imposing stone citadel sculpted by nature. This iconic “Rocher” defines the city’s dramatic skyline and offers breathtaking views from every angle. Discover it from: Above: A spectacular aerial view from the cable car (téléphérique) On foot: Walking trails and stairs along the Boulevard de l’Abîme, where the cliff plunges vertically into the Rhumel Below: Deep down, at the foot of the rock, feel the magnitude of Constantine’s natural fortress

Ancient Tiddis: A Forgotten Roman Gem Just 20 km from Constantine lies the archaeological site of Tiddis, one of the best-preserved Roman-Berber cities in North Africa. Built into red hills, it features: Roman baths, sanctuaries, and streets A Berber necropolis Stunning views over the Constantine plain A must-see for lovers of archaeology and forgotten civilizations.

Sites You Shouldn’t Miss Sidi M’Cid Bridge: 175 meters above the canyon Devil’s Bridge (Pont du Diable): A narrow bridge suspended over a dizzying chasm—half legend, half reality El Kantara Bridge: Connecting the old Casbah to the modern city Boulevard de l’Abîme: A cliff-side walk with unforgettable panoramas The Rock Tour: Accessible via cable car, stairs, or by car around its base The Emir Abdelkader Mosque: A modern masterpiece and one of Africa’s largest mosques The Palace of Ahmed Bey: A stunning Ottoman-era palace The Cirta Museum: Home to Roman mosaics, Berber artifacts, and Islamic art Souq El-Ghazel: A colorful market in the heart of the old medina Constantine for AFSRA 2025 Coming to Constantine for the AFSRA 2025 Congress means more than just attending a world-class scientific event—it means entering a city of legends, bridges, and civilizations. Whether viewed from the sky or explored step by step, Constantine will astonish you.