A mosque nearly a thousand years old
The mosque was built in 1033, during the reign of the Zirid emir al-Mu'izz ibn Badis, when the city was called Bouna. It bears the name of Abu Marwan al-Buni, one of the most famous Muslim scholars from the city, whose memory remains tied to the place.
After the French army took the city in 1830, the mosque was turned into a military hospital: an upper floor was added and the adjoining garden was separated from the rest of the complex. It has since returned to its religious role.
Architecture that bridges the eras
The prayer hall unfolds over seven aisles, punctuated by intersecting arches that create a striking sense of depth. But the building's defining feature is its supports: columns and capitals were salvaged from ancient monuments, most likely from Hippo, the nearby Roman city. Two eras and two civilizations meet in the same hall.
Two domes originally topped the narthex; they disappeared after 1830 when the building was converted.
Visiting the mosque: good habits
- Active place of worship: come outside prayer times and avoid Friday midday.
- Modest dress: arms and legs covered, a headscarf for women; shoes come off at the entrance to the prayer hall.
- Discretion: ask before photographing the interior or worshippers.
- Time needed: 20 to 30 minutes for the mosque and its surroundings.
A walk through the old town to Cours de la Révolution
Extend your visit by wandering the old town lanes, between old houses, small shops and stairways. A few minutes' walk brings you to Cours de la Révolution, simply called "the Cours" by locals: a wide avenue lined with trees, arcades and café terraces.
It is the city's open-air living room. Sit on a terrace to taste bourek annabi, a crispy stuffed and fried pastry that is a local specialty, or come back in the evening when the avenue fills with strollers.
How to get there
The mosque is in the old town, about 500 meters from Cours de la Révolution. As the lanes are narrow and parking is difficult, park near the Cours and walk the rest. From Rabah Bitat Airport, allow about 15 to 20 minutes by road: with a rental car at Annaba Airport, you are in town right after landing.
Combining your visit with other sights
To follow the thread of history, add the ruins of Hippo and the Saint Augustine Basilica, 3 km to the south. By the sea, Saint-Cloud beach is 2.5 km away and Cap de Garde about ten kilometers. Find all our ideas in the complete Annaba guide and our selection of Annaba beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Sidi Bou Merouane mosque built?
It was built in 1033, during the reign of the Zirid emir al-Mu'izz ibn Badis. It is the oldest Islamic building in Annaba.
Where does the mosque's name come from?
It is named after Abu Marwan al-Buni, one of the most famous Muslim scholars from Annaba, formerly Bouna.
Can you visit the Sidi Bou Merouane mosque?
Yes, outside prayer times, in modest dress and removing your shoes at the entrance to the prayer hall. Avoid Friday midday.
Where is the Sidi Bou Merouane mosque?
In Annaba's old town, about 500 meters from Cours de la Révolution, within walking distance of the center.
Why are there ancient columns in the mosque?
Its builders reused columns and capitals from ancient monuments, most likely from the nearby Roman city of Hippo.
