Cherchell
شرشال
The former capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania, once called Caesarea. Its archaeological museum holds some of the finest Roman statues and mosaics in North Africa.
Cherchell lies about 30 km west of Tipaza. In antiquity it was known as Iol and then Caesarea. From 25 BC it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania, ruled by Juba II of Numidia and Cleopatra Selene, and later became the capital of a Roman province. The Cherchell Archaeological Museum is famous for its Greco-Roman marble statues and mosaics, including the Three Graces. The town also has a Roman theater, a stadium, and the remains of an ancient harbor. The old town center has a plaza with a fountain. Cherchell is about 90 km from Algiers. It is usually combined with Tipaza as a day trip, and you will need a hired car or a rental to get there.
Opening hours
Museum approx. 09:00–17:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Tipasa
- Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania
- Chiffa Gorges (Ruisseau des Singes)
- Sidi Fredj
- Chréa National Park
- National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art
- Bardo National Museum (Algiers)
- Sacred Heart Cathedral of Algiers