Happy TravellerWelcome to Sour El-Ghozlane, a historic town and commune located in the central-northern region of Algeria’s Bouïra Province. With a population of over 42,000, this charming destination is steeped in rich history and boasts a range of cultural and natural attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
History:
Sour El-Ghozlane has a long and fascinating history that dates back to prehistoric times. A prehistoric tool (biface) testifying to the human presence from prehistoric times was found west of the city. It is the first city founded in Roman province in the center of deep Algeria, a Roman fortress but originally a Numidian city. Its construction dates from the year 33 av. AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Auzia quickly became a powerful city, capital of the highland regions, which relegates to a secondary role the strategic importance of the Roman city of Djemila, the ancient Cuicui, in the wilaya of Setif because of its remoteness from the centers Of Roman power. At the time of the Roman presence in Africa, the city bore the name of Auzia. The remains of a theater have been spotted there. It is the location of the Roman city Auzia, in the province Mauretania Caesariensis. The name Auzia is still used as a Roman Catholic titular bishopric. Then, Auzia was part of the division of the Roman Empire of North Africa. Its position as a city at the gates of the Sahara marked the beginning of the period when the Roman conquest reached the limits of the world known at the time and where the Roman civilization. The city of Auzia has two characteristics in Roman history in North Africa, its great influence on its bureaucratic and military structure and its strategic location as a great religious edifice. Like the construction of the temple of Apollo, supposed to be located at the present site of the civil hospital of Sour-El-Ghozlane. Auzia was equipped with an amphitheater built by the citys bourgeois institution to host shows, such as gladiatorial fights. The ruins also have a bath house, forum and temples. In addition, Auzia is identified as a city with political power dominated by a patriarchal link and entirely in the hands of two comices, organized to reflect at best the tribal divisions of the city. On the other hand, its administrative and military status reveals that it was definitively subjected to the order of the Roman Empire with the status of autonomous city of the Roman province (free zone: region of Algiers to Bou-Saada) caesarean. Auzia is a large city of ovoid form, destined to serve as capital in this region of central Algeria, Auguste had it endowed with several public edifices: a forum (present room of the festivals), several temples, a curia, a market, a theater and large thermal baths. Auzia was erected on a hill at a moderate altitude, where to this day a wall was in good condition in some places, revealing a kind of citadel which protected the inhabitants. Around the year 17 Tacfarinas, who had served in the Roman Army before deserting to take the lead of a revolt by federated Berber tribes and their Moorish neighbors, whose leaders Mazippa, and the Cinithians revolted against the Roman army. The insurrection, based on the tactics of harassment (contemporary guerrilla warfare), stretched from Little Syrte in the east to Mauretania in the west and lasted seven years. The proconsul Cornelius Dolabella ended the war by besieging the fort of Tacfarinas, presumably situated at Auzia, in the year 24 apr. AD It was also the most frequented Roman tourist spot for the gazelle hunting that the city itself was named by the Algerian administration Sour-El-Ghozlane meaning Rampart of the Gazelles. For a long time, Auzia was a commercial city but its development was hampered by several internal conflicts and violent tribal revolts. Sour El Ghozlane served under the French as a military post from 1845 and received the name of Aumale in honor of the Duke of Aumale, son of Louis Philippe.
Attractions:
Sour El-Ghozlane is home to a range of cultural and natural attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Roman ruins of Auzia, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history. Visitors can explore the ruins of the amphitheater, bath house, forum, and temples, and learn about the city’s political and military structure.
Another popular attraction in the area is the Temple of Apollo, which is said to have been located at the present site of the civil hospital of Sour-El-Ghozlane. Although the temple is no longer standing, visitors can still explore the site and learn about its significance in Roman times.
For those who love the great outdoors, Sour El-Ghozlane is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that are perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring. The nearby Djurdjura Mountains offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, while the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is home to a range of rare and endangered species.
Culture and Cuisine:
Sour El-Ghozlane is a vibrant and welcoming community that is known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine. Visitors can explore the town’s many museums and galleries, which showcase the work of local artists and artisans, or attend one of the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year.
When it comes to food, Sour El-Ghozlane is famous for its traditional Algerian cuisine, which is characterized by its bold flavors and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can sample a range of delicious dishes, including couscous, tagine, and brik, or enjoy a cup of traditional mint tea at one of the town’s many cafes and restaurants.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Sour El-Ghozlane has something to offer everyone. So why not plan your visit today and discover the many treasures of this charming Algerian town for yourself?
