Guelma, in north-eastern Algeria, is a historic city with an important collection of Roman and Byzantine heritage. Known to the Romans as Calama, the ancient city developed into an important centre of Roman North Africa and today offers visitors another fascinating insight into Algeria’s remarkably rich archaeological past.
The highlight of Guelma’s Roman heritage is its impressive Roman theatre, one of the best restored ancient theatres in Algeria. Originally constructed during the Roman period and later reconstructed, the theatre provides a striking reminder of the prosperity and cultural importance of ancient Calama.
Today the theatre forms part of Guelma’s archaeological museum complex, where visitors can discover statues, inscriptions, columns, architectural fragments and other finds from the ancient city. The archaeological remains scattered through the centre of modern Guelma create an unusual open-air connection between the contemporary city and its Roman past.
Roman Calama and Saint Augustine
Guelma also has an important connection with the story of early Christianity in North Africa. Ancient Calama was an important Christian centre during the period of Saint Augustine, whose life and work were closely connected with the cities of this region.
Guelma can be explored on our Antiquities of Roman Algeria Tour, which journeys through some of Algeria’s greatest Roman cities and archaeological sites.
It also features on our In Saint Augustine’s Footsteps Tour, travelling through Annaba, Hippo Regius, Souk Ahras, Madaure and Guelma to explore Algeria’s remarkable Roman and early Christian heritage.