Bastion de France, Historic trading post ruins in El Kala, Algeria
Description
Bastion de France is a former trading post near the Mediterranean coast with visible stone walls and foundations that show its past scale. The site once served as a secured base with structures for storage and operations, positioned on slightly elevated ground near El Kala.
History
The trading post was founded in 1561 to control and expand coral fishing operations in the region. It became an important link in the network connecting Mediterranean ports with North African fishing grounds for several centuries.
Culture
This site was where French merchants and local communities came together for business centered on coral fishing and trade. The place shows how closely European and North African markets were connected to each other.
Practical
The ruins are located near El Kala and are accessible through the town, which serves as the main base for visits. Wear appropriate footwear to navigate the uneven ground safely when exploring the site.
Did you know?
At its peak, this place employed hundreds of fishermen working with dozens of vessels to harvest coral from Mediterranean waters. This intensive fishing activity made it one of the major economic centers of its era.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Algeria).
Jendouba
45.3 km
El Kala National Park
13.1 km
El Feidja National Park
46.6 km
Chemtou
51.9 km
Mosquée de Sidi Bou Merouane
51.5 km
Hippo Regius Museum
52.7 km
Thuburnica
45.1 km
Archeological Museum of Chemtou
52.1 km
Djebel Ghorra
36.1 km
Salah Bey Mosque
51.8 km
Cap de Garde Lighthouse
50 km
Marché couvert d'Annaba
52 km
Tabarka lighthouse
37.4 km
Aïn Draham church
34.8 km
Saint Maximus of Tabarka Church (Tabarka)
37 km
Beni M'Tir church
40.2 km
Chemtou church
51.9 km
Tabarka Fort
37.4 km
Fort génois de Tabarka
37.5 km
Bou Heurtma Reservoir
48.5 km
Theatre of Chemtou
51.7 km
Basilica of Chemtou
51.9 km
Aqueduct of Chemtou
51.4 km
Pont bâti en 112 par Trajan, à ses frais, avec le concours de la Légion, sur la Medjerda
52.1 km
Chemtou amphitheatre
52.2 km
Guesguès
37.2 km
Thermes
51.6 km
Roman bridge of Thuburnica
45.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes