Hippo, over a thousand years of history
The city first appears in the sources around 310 BC. Linked to Carthage and then absorbed into the Numidian kingdom of Masinissa, it received its title of Regius, "royal". Under the Roman Empire, Hippo became one of the leading cities of Africa and grew considerably, thanks to its harbor sheltered by Cap de Garde.
At the end of the 4th century, Augustine became its bishop. He died there in 430, during the Vandal siege of the city. Over the centuries the name changed: Hippo, Bouna, Bône and then Annaba, possibly a reference to the jujube tree, al-'unnab in Arabic.
What to see at the Hippo site
The forum, one of the largest in North Africa
The heart of the Roman city, the forum measures about 76 by 43 meters. Inscriptions there honor several emperors, and its decoration used marble quarried at nearby Cap de Garde. Monumental statues were found here, some carved in Parian marble.
Baths, market and theater
Around the forum, excavations uncovered a market (macellum), several bath complexes and a Roman theater, as well as residential districts, including multi-story houses built on the slope. Along the shore, massive walls of large stone blocks date back to Numidian times.
The Christian quarter
An iconic part of the site, the Christian quarter includes several basilicas, among them a large three-aisled basilica, a baptistery and annex buildings. Archaeologists long searched here for the Basilica pacis, the cathedral where Augustine served as bishop.
The Hippo museum
At the entrance to the site, the museum displays some of the finds: mosaics with hunting and animal-capture scenes, statue fragments and a remarkable bronze trophy. An ideal visit to picture the city before walking around the ruins.
Visiting Hippo: practical information
- Access: 3 km south of the city center, a 5 to 10-minute drive, at the foot of the basilica hill. Rabah Bitat Airport is about 15 minutes away.
- Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours for the site and museum.
- Opening hours: they may vary by season and day; check before you go.
- When to come: morning or late afternoon, as the site has little shade.
- What to bring: closed shoes, a hat and water in summer.
Combining Hippo with other visits
Then head up to the Saint Augustine Basilica, which overlooks the site and offers a full view of the ruins and the sea. Next, go down into town to see the Sidi Bou Merouane mosque, whose ancient columns echo this link between eras.
In the afternoon, head for the cool heights of Seraidi or the beaches of Annaba. Flying in? With a rental car picked up at Annaba Airport, Hippo can be your first stop, a quarter of an hour from the runway. More ideas in our complete Annaba guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the ruins of Hippo?
The ruins of Hippo are in Annaba, about 3 km south of the city center, at the foot of the Saint Augustine Basilica hill.
What is Hippo Regius?
Hippo Regius is the ancient city that preceded Annaba: a Numidian royal town, then a major city of Roman Africa and the episcopal seat of Saint Augustine.
What can you see at Hippo?
The Roman forum, one of the largest in North Africa, the baths, the market, the theater, residential districts, the Christian quarter and the site museum.
How long does it take to visit Hippo?
Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the site and museum. Add 30 to 45 minutes for the Saint Augustine Basilica just above.
What is the link between Hippo and Saint Augustine?
Augustine was bishop of Hippo from the end of the 4th century until his death in 430, during the Vandal siege of the city.
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