The stone temple
A broad stair and huge blocks.
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The Roman ruins of Tigzirt are a small, lovely site on a peninsula above the Mediterranean, in a coastal town of Tizi Ouzou Province. Once called Iomnium, its columns and arches stand against the blue water, and it is among the most pleasant archaeological sites in northern Algeria, little known to foreign visitors. The town began as a Phoenician colony on a small peninsula that was easy to defend, then became a small port under the Romans. The name Tigzirt means island in Kabyle. In its centre are the remains of a Christian basilica from the fifth or sixth century. The modern town was founded only in 1888. A stone temple with columns, a broad stair and a wall of huge blocks stands at one end of the site. Columns stand in rows before the sea horizon, with upright arches and sunken foundations. You walk among grass and stones, and the sun turns the stone golden at the right hour. The sea and distant mountains lie in view, and it is usually quiet. The town is 20.8 km in a straight line north of Tizi Ouzou and fills with holidaymakers in summer. The stones are uneven, so take care with children. Do not climb the columns, and the beach is stony, so wear suitable shoes. Ask in town about hours, as parts may be closed. An evening visit is kinder in the heat.
A broad stair and huge blocks.
Stone upright before the sea horizon.
Sea and distant mountains.
Central Tigzirt, Tizi Ouzou Province
Yes, but the beach is stony, so bring suitable shoes.
In summer, when holidaymakers come from across the country.