Annaba is a city in the northeastern corner of Algeria near the river Seybouse and the Tunisian border. It is located in Annaba Province. With a population of 258 058 (2002 estimate), it is the fourth largest city in Algeria. It is a leading industrial centre in eastern Algeria.
The vicinity of Annaba has yielded evidence of very early hominid occupation at Ain el Hanech, near Saïda (ca. 200,000 B.C.), including artefacts that show remarkable tool-making craftsmanship. Other archaeological finds include tools in the Levalloisian and Mousterian styles produced by humans (Homo sapiens) well before 100,000 years ago, similar to those in the Levant. According to some sources, prehistoric Algeria was the site of the most advanced development of flake-tool techniques in the Middle Stone Age (Middle Paleolithic). Tools from this era, starting from at least as early as 85,000 B.C., are called Aterian after the site Bir el Ater south of Annaba. These tools are marked by a high standard of workmanship, great variety, and specialization. See Prehistory of Central North Africa.
Annaba, which was called Hippo Regius during Roman times, was probably founded by the Phoenicians in the 12th century BC. It was a centre of early Christianity. Augustine of Hippo was bishop here from 396 until 430. The city has buildings from its Roman, Christian, and Muslim eras.
During French rule, the city was known as Bône. It was one of the main European settlements, having a sizeable pied-noir minority. One famous pied-noir from Bône was Alphonse Juin, a Marshal of France and a former NATO Central Europe Commander.
PLACE TO VISIT
One of the must sees of Annaba is the Church of Saint-Augustine of Hippo, or "Lela Bouna" as it is sometimes reffered to in Arabic. It is located on a hill not too far outside downtown, and it's a dominating sight. Taxis run regularly to and from the church. The Church itself is a marvel, with stunning architecture and ancient Roman ruins right behind it. Saint Augustine's hand is kept inside the church.
Downtown Annaba is a great place to take a stroll. Visit "Le Cours" the central square in downtown and try some delicious ice cream sold at local cafes. Walk around downtown and be surrounded by French colonial architecture and stunning contrasts of old and new. Just off Le Cours is "La Place d'Armes". The oldest part of the city (the Kasbah), it boasts magnificent Ottoman architecture and was build starting in the 12th century. Enjoy narrow alleys and walkways and marvel at the fact that people to this day still live in these houses. It is located on a hill and at the bottom at the entrance of La Place d'Armes is a mosques built by the Turks in the 16th century.
WHAT TO DO
A visit to Annaba is not complete without enjoying it's beautiful Meditteranean coastline and one of it's many beaches. During the day enjoy relaxing day at one of the beaches and at night head to "La Corniche". Located at the beach "Chappui" it comes alive at night with restaurants, clubs and people enjoying the crisp, cool refreshing air. A great end to any day.
There's also an Amusement Park in the neighbourhood of "Les Allemends" that offers a good time for families with young children.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Annaba is best reached by air. It's airport (Rabah Bitat International Airport) has regular services to Paris (Orly), Marseille, and Lyons. However, these frequencies aren't frequent and one should check an Air Algerie timetable when planning a trip. There are four daily flights between Algiers and Annaba. Annaba also has regular service to Oran.
By Sea - There is a ferry service from Marseille to Annaba operated by, Ferries Algerie.
By Road - One can also reach Annaba by road quite easily from most major Algerian cities. However, due to the lack of quality infrastructure this is the least desirable option.
