Sidi M'Cid: The Suspended Jewel of Constantine

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [La afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين
  [Sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Annajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [Adhab ba'idan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itasal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Itasal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [Aridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfarruj]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [Kam huwa thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk takhfid alsu'r?]

• What time is it?ما هو الوقت؟
  [Ma huwa alwaqt?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Alssaa'at alwaahida]
• Half past (10)بعد نصف العاشرة
  [Ba'd nisf al'ashara]
• Morningالصباح
  [Alsubah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [Al'asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [Tas'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [Ayna ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa ala'naan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يكون الحافلة التالية؟
  [Mata yakun alhaffalah altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tazkirah (ila ...)]

Sidi M'Cid, located on the edge of a dramatic gorge, has its roots deeply intertwined with the rich history of Constantine, known as Cirta in ancient times. The area is named after a revered local saint, Sidi M'Cid, who is believed to have lived in the 12th century. His tomb, situated in the neighbourhood, serves as a pilgrimage site, reflecting the area's spiritual significance and the blend of Islamic and local traditions.

During the Ottoman period, Sidi M'Cid became an important district within Constantine, contributing to the city's strategic military and cultural landscape. The Ottomans utilized the natural defenses offered by the gorge, making it a site for fortifications. This era saw the introduction of new architectural styles and the establishment of markets, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange.

With the French colonization of Algeria in the 19th century, Sidi M'Cid underwent significant transformations. The French expanded infrastructure, including roads and bridges, connecting Sidi M'Cid more directly to the city center. The iconic Sidi M'Cid Bridge, constructed in the early 20th century, is a testament to this period, showcasing engineering advancements and becoming a symbol of the city.

In contemporary times, Sidi M'Cid has evolved into a vibrant neighbourhood that embodies the cultural diversity of Constantine. It hosts various cultural events and is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and textiles. The local population maintains a rich oral history and a strong sense of community, preserving customs that reflect both Arab and Berber influences.

The stunning natural landscape surrounding Sidi M'Cid, characterized by its cliffs and the Rhumel River, attracts visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility. The area offers hiking trails and viewpoints that showcase the dramatic scenery of Constantine. This blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage positions Sidi M'Cid as a noteworthy destination for both local and international tourists.

Sidi M'Cid is accessible from various neighborhoods in Constantine, Algeria. Travelers can take a taxi or a bus from the city center, which typically takes around 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. The local bus system includes routes that connect to Sidi M'Cid, and taxis are widely available for a quicker, more direct route.

Sidi M'Cid is best explored on foot, particularly to fully appreciate its scenic views and architectural marvels. Local buses and taxis are available for longer distances, while bicycles can be rented from nearby shops for a more leisurely exploration of the area. Be mindful of the hilly terrain, which may require some physical effort.

Sidi M'Cid is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists; however, it is wise to remain vigilant. Areas to avoid after dark include isolated spots near the M'Cid Bridge. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. Engaging with local residents can provide additional safety insights.

In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance or 14 for medical emergencies in Algeria. Hospitals and clinics are available in Constantine, but it is advisable to have travel insurance. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are well-stocked with common medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly; don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do offer a handshake and a smile; don’t engage in overly familiar behavior. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations; don’t refuse food or drink, which can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Sidi M'Cid like a local, visit the markets and small shops to sample traditional Algerian foods such as 'couscous' and 'brik'. Engage with local artisans and craftspeople, as they often have fascinating stories about their work. Don’t miss the beautiful viewpoints along the cliff edges for stunning photographs of the Rhumel River.