Algerian Radio
Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, stressed Tuesday at the site of the Imedghassen Royal Numidian Mausoleum in the municipality of Boumia—at the end of a two-day visit to Batna—the "necessity of finalizing the study for the project to valorize and secure this important historical monument."
Accompanied by the Wali of Batna, Riadh Benahmed, the Minister listened to a presentation on the emergency operation regarding the study for a protection and valorization plan for this archaeological site, located approximately 30 km from the wilaya capital, and its attached protected zone. With the second phase nearly complete and the third phase pending, she emphasized the "importance of this monument, the oldest witness to Numidian civilization in Algeria."
She added that her department is "closely following this urgent operation that supervised bodies have begun to implement, especially as the Imedghassen Mausoleum is expected to be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside other mausoleums from the Numidian era—a significant period in Algerian culture given its rich history."
During her visit, the Minister also listened to a presentation regarding two other studies related to the security and valorization of the Timgad archaeological site and its museum. She underscored "the necessity of turning such sites, which represent an important civilizational and cultural facet, into an economic lever that benefits the region."
As a reminder, Ms. Bendouda—who attended the closing of the 43rd Timgad International Cultural Festival on Monday night—had previously inspected several facilities within her sector, as well as the ongoing rehabilitation works at the Dr. Salah Lembarkia Regional Theater.
