Algiers Peaceful Demonstrations

I got very lucky to observe modern history unfolding while in Algeria. On Tuesday, after six weeks of peaceful demonstrations the 82 year-old, sickly president resigned, albeit the demonstrators weren’t satisfied. They continued demonstrating for a seventh consecutive week, seeking the exit of all those associated with the president’s allegedly corrupt regime.

 The demonstrations have dampened Algeria’s tourist industry. Many potential tourists have mentally linked the demonstrations to less-peaceful Arab-Spring Revolutions. But I can personally attest, after walking amongst the demonstrators and chatting to observers in front of my hotel, I never felt unsafe or that danger was abound. I even witnessed, and was thoroughly impressed by, random youths picking up litter, presumably trying to forgo any potential criticism of the demonstrations by supporters of the regime.

M’Zab Valley

I spent the day stepping back in time as I observed the local customs and culture while visiting the historic cities and sites in the M’Zab valley UNSECO. I visited traditional market places, enjoy the lively atmosphere and lively colors, and unique architecture. I wandered though narrow streets, visiting religious monuments and mosques, and enjoy the natural beauty.

Ghardaia

Finally found what I expected Algeria to look like. The city of Ghardaia about 600k south of Algiers and the North Coast. Ghardaia is semi-arid, populated with distinct white, pink, and red houses, made of sand, clay and gypsum surround by palm trees groves. Most of the locals dress and live more traditionally than the Algerians of the north. Ghardaia is a UNESCO designated world heritage site located in the M’Zab Valley and home of the Ibadi religious sect in Algeria. While a religious Muslim sect, they do not subscribe to the doctrine of Sunnism or Shi’ism. They practice their own way of praying, worshipping of god and designing mosques. The wastage of water, and more generally any gift of land, is considered a sin.

Timgad

After breakfast, we traveled south to the large site of Timgad. At this site we explored the library (one of the rare Roman libraries constructed outside of Italy), temples, amphitheater, and arch of Trajan.

We had a police escort to and return from the site. 

Lambaesis

Lambaesa was founded by the Roman military. I found this very unusual. Why would the military found a city. But apparently it was founded for the retire military officers to retire.

Tiddis

Exploring the hillside Roman site of Tiddis offers excellent views over the region. It includes walking through the arch and the sanctuary of Mithras, Christian basilica, and Roman houses. This was my least favor Roman Ruin in Tunisia. There really wasn't much to see.

Constantine

Constantine has it! The largest functioning mosque in North Africa Constantine museum that’s full of ancient statues and mosaics, suspension bridges, waterfalls views; nearby roman cities of Timgad, Tiddis, and Lambaesis; Kasbah, Palace of Ahmed Bey plus spring wildflowers, endless green hills and agriculture everywhere! I never expected Algeria to have so much agriculture production. Shout out to my great hosts “Algeria Tours16 “and my EXTREMELY knowledgeable tour guide Billel.