Tipaza Roman Ruins: Discovering the picturesque Algerian scenery

Discover the hidden ancient wonders of Algeria by visiting the Roman Ruins of Tipaza!

Looking no longer, if you want to discover a typical Mediterranean dream setting, you must visit the Roman Ruins of Tipaza . Once on site, you will understand why this place was so cherished by the different civilizations that followed in the region! On the programme: turquoise waters, ancient ruins and charming wooded hills.

Discover in this article everything you need to know that the Roman Ruins of Tipaza no longer have any secrets for you!

In the footsteps of the Roman Ruins of Tipaza

Towards the 5th before Jesus Christ, the Phoenicians founded a counter at the edge of these calm waters. The city derives its name from this origin, which means "place of passage" or "stop".

Certainly less important than the port of Caesaria (actual Cherchell ), the port of Tipaza gradually became an important trade node for the Phoenicians of Carthage, a port through which transit and selling goods from Greece , d Italy or Iberia. Punic city, it is annexed in 146 BC by Rome along with Mauritania (current Maghreb) following the Carthage headquarters.

Once conquered, Tipaza developed gradually until he became a real Roman colony in the 1st century. In the 2nd century, it reached its peak with nearly 20,000 inhabitants. At that time, it extended to the west at the expense of a former punic necropolis, which you can discover during your visit!

Despite its strong and long wall of 2km, Tipaza was destroyed and looted by the Vandals led by Genséric. Persecuted, local Christians then fled to Spain. The Byzantines, heirs of the Roman Empire, tried to bring this Roman colony back to life around the 6th century. After all, this territory was a perfect entrance to conquer Mauritania. But it was a failure.

Only for the travellers remains the ruins and remains of a tedious era, green hills and the sea: a dream setting that seduced the Phoenicians when they arrived 2 500 years ago!

What's behind the Roman Ruins of Tipaza?

Fortunately for travellers looking for authentic adventures, Algeria is not a privileged destination by the common tourists. The Roman Ruins of Tipaza represent perfectly the hidden treasures of this beautiful North African country. But what makes this jewel of the world heritage as unique and captivating is obviously its marvelous setting mixed with the calm, serenity and magnificence of this forgotten Roman colony. The weight of the ages blends with the picturesque and authenticity of the current Algerian coastal town.

The Roman ruins of Tipaza are separated into two large ensembles. The first, outside the ancient walls, houses the Punic necropolis , an exceptional testimony of the Carthaginian era, as well as the funeral basilica of Sainte Salsa. In the second, Archaeological Park , is found most monuments updated. You can visit them houses antiques, thermes and even the amphitheatre of the colony. Certainly modest, it was the scene of the confrontations of gladiators and even of reconstituted naval battles! In Tipaza, you will also be able to discover tombs dating from the time of the early Christians, Great Basilica and Basilica Alexander .

Also enjoy your visit to Tipaza to admire the Mausolée royal de Maurétanie (Kbor er Roumia) where the Berber King is buried Juba II and his wife Elene II , daughter of Cleopatra and Marc Antoine.

To go

How?

The first step to visit the Roman Ruins of Tipaza is to go to the current city of Tipaza, 74 kilometers away Alger .

• By car:

If you landed in Algiers and opted for the car rental when you arrive, you will need about 1:30 to go to the Roman Ruins of Tipaza. You will have to borrow the Rocade Tipaza that runs along the coast to reach the city.

On site it is possible to park in the nearby streets but it is advisable to park in the paid parking close to the site.

• By bus:

It is possible to get to Tipaza by bus from Algiers. For this, you can go to the small bus station in Tafourah (subway service) and located in the centre of Algiers. On site you can buy in a dedicated counter your way to Tipaza.

There is no website to book your ticket, it is necessary to go to the station counter. Count at least 1H30 to reach the Roman Ruins (the duration depends on the number of stops and traffic).

• In turn operator:

You can also book a tour operator with a guide from Algiers. Before booking, make sure that the visit includes the Royal Mausolée of Mauritania, which is located away from the city of Tipaza and not in the archaeological site.

When?

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the Roman ruins of Tipaza can be visited all year . To avoid high heat, it is recommended to discover them between September and May – out of the summer period. It should be noted that, with the exception of the winter months, it is possible to swim in the crystal clear waters that border Tipaza.

To sleep

On site

The city has several hotels and resorts to the Roman Ruins of Tipaza or not far from the beautiful local beaches. If you don't know where to sleep near the Roman ruins of Tipaza, you can consult our article on the best areas of Tipaza.

Of course, it is recommended to anticipate your trip to have a fairly wide choice of accommodation! To help you in your research, don’t hesitate to go to this Compare hotels or to visit the site Airbnb if you prefer an individual for a more authentic experience.

The nearby addresses

If you don’t want to sleep near the Roman Ruins of Tipaza, you can also choose to stay in the neighbouring town of Cherchell – another tourist town in Algeria – or in the capital, Algiers. To help you, we also have an article about the best areas where to stay in Algiers !

To eat

The Roman Ruins of Tipaza are located not far from the port of the current city and its city centre. He is not not possible picnic or to be restored in the archaeological park. However, you will find nearby the port of many restaurants, such as Restaurant Romana , Restaurant Le Dauphin or Albert Camus . You can enjoy delicious seafood specialties.

To take in my backpack

On the coasts of North Africa, it is often very hot, it is better to equip yourself accordingly to avoid sunburn or insolation.

We recommend you:

• A bottle of water or a gourd
• Clean sun cream is better to respect the environment!
• A hat or cap to protect you from the sun
• From your swimsuit and beach towel
• From a camera
• And good walking shoes to get to the busiest places!

What I can discover in the region

Tipaza and its surroundings don't miss wonders! We strongly advise you to schedule time to visit the Roman ruins of Tipaza. Here's what you shouldn't miss during your stay:

• The Royal Mausolée of Mauritania, not far from the city
• The port of Tipaza and its typical boats
• The Arab Centre for Archaeology, a small museum located in Tipaza
• The city of Cherchell (former Caesaria)
• The Roman ruins of Caesaria
• The hills between Tipaza and Cherchell, a natural space that will seduce hikers and nature lovers
• The beaches of Tipaza: Chenoua, the beach of Pins, the blue beaches

The destination in images