Djemila houses the ruins of what was once the Roman city of Cuicul. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982 and it is a unique case in the world of the adaptation of Roman architecture to a mountainous environment. It is an impressive set to look at, before which the visitor will be delighted.
It is located in the wilaya of Setif, 120 kilometers northwest of Timgad. It was founded in 96 AD. taking its name from a Berber village of the place. Like other Roman cities, it is located in a strategic enclave, 900 meters above sea level. His defense was guaranteed from that position, given his difficult access.
In the 2nd century AD its maximum splendor took place, expanding beyond its original walls and reaching more than 10,000 inhabitants. As another of its curious details, the streets followed the Roman orthogonal plan, but adapting to the particularities of the slope of the terrain. In the 4th century AD part of the population converted to Christianity, providing the city with new buildings such as basilicas and a Christian neighborhood. Later, in the year 431 d.c. the city was invaded by the Vandals and would again have a resurgence with the Byzantines during the 6th century AD.
Finally, the city was abandoned in the 7th century AD. due to the Arab invasions and the earthquakes that frequently affected the area.
Djemila was excavated between 1909 and 1957, but today there are still many remains that have not been recovered. At the entrance of the city is located the Museum of Cuicul. In it there is an extraordinary collection of mosaics from the villas and mansions of the city, as well as other objects of daily use found in the archaeological excavations of the same. It is worth noting an impressive head of Septimius Severus, the emperor born in Leptis Magna and elevated to divine status thanks to the imperial cult.
It is located in the wilaya of Setif, 120 kilometers northwest of Timgad. It was founded in 96 AD. taking its name from a Berber village of the place. Like other Roman cities, it is located in a strategic enclave, 900 meters above sea level. His defense was guaranteed from that position, given his difficult access.
In the 2nd century AD its maximum splendor took place, expanding beyond its original walls and reaching more than 10,000 inhabitants. As another of its curious details, the streets followed the Roman orthogonal plan, but adapting to the particularities of the slope of the terrain. In the 4th century AD part of the population converted to Christianity, providing the city with new buildings such as basilicas and a Christian neighborhood. Later, in the year 431 d.c. the city was invaded by the Vandals and would again have a resurgence with the Byzantines during the 6th century AD.
Finally, the city was abandoned in the 7th century AD. due to the Arab invasions and the earthquakes that frequently affected the area.
Djemila was excavated between 1909 and 1957, but today there are still many remains that have not been recovered. At the entrance of the city is located the Museum of Cuicul. In it there is an extraordinary collection of mosaics from the villas and mansions of the city, as well as other objects of daily use found in the archaeological excavations of the same. It is worth noting an impressive head of Septimius Severus, the emperor born in Leptis Magna and elevated to divine status thanks to the imperial cult.
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