Sidi M'Cid Bridge: Constantine's Suspended Icon
Experience Constantine's iconic Sidi M'Cid Bridge: a historic suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the Rhumel River gorge and the city.
Spanning the Rhumel River gorge in Constantine, Algeria, the Sidi M'Cid Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city, renowned for its impressive height and panoramic views. Opened in April 1912, this 164-meter-long suspension bridge was designed by French engineer Ferdinand Arnodin. Until 1929, it held the title of the world's highest bridge at 175 meters. The bridge links the Casbah, Constantine's old city, to Sidi M'Cid hill, offering pedestrians and vehicles a direct route. The bridge's hybrid cable-stayed suspension design has been compared to the Brooklyn Bridge. The Sidi M'Cid Bridge provides breathtaking views of the Rhumel River gorge and the city of Constantine. A unique natural bridge lies almost directly beneath the span, partially obscuring the river from view. The bridge underwent restoration in 2000, during which twelve of its cables were replaced. The Sidi M'Cid Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a testament to Constantine's history, culture, and the natural beauty of the Rhumel Gorges.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you may want to explore the surrounding areas after crossing the bridge.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the unique architecture of the bridge.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as the area can be windy at times.
A brief summary to Sidi M'Cid Bridge
- Pont du diable, M'Cid, Constantine, Constantine, DZ
Getting There
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Walking
From Constantine's city center, head towards Place des Martyrs. Walk towards Rue de la République and follow it to the Kasbah entrance. Continue through the Kasbah, and upon exiting, you'll find a viewpoint overlooking the Rhumel River. Follow signs towards Pont du Diable, leading to Sidi M'Cid Bridge. The walk is approximately 30 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Constantine's central bus station, take bus number 7 towards M'Cid. The bus will drop you off near Sidi M'Cid Bridge. Follow the signs to the bridge, a short 10-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare costs approximately 20 DZD.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from the central taxi rank near Place des Martyrs. Ask for a taxi to M'Cid (Sidi M'Cid Bridge). The ride takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. A taxi ride will cost around 200-300 DZD.
