Minister of Culture and Arts Malika Bendouda on Tuesday praised ongoing efforts to inscribe the Augustinian Routes on the UNESCO World Heritage List, making the announcement during Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the ancient archaeological site of Hippo in Annaba.
Speaking exclusively to dzwatch, Bendouda described the initiative as “a strategic state project aimed at valorizing national heritage, boosting Algeria’s cultural influence, and developing cultural tourism”, positioning the site as a global destination for researchers and scholars of Augustinian thought.
The minister emphasized the importance of strengthening international academic cooperation and advancing scientific research to ensure this heritage is preserved and transmitted to future generations.
The Augustinian Routes encompass the archaeological sites of Hippo in Annaba, alongside Thagaste and Madauros in Souk Ahras — all deeply linked to the life and legacy of Saint Augustine.
Bendouda reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding national heritage as a driver of cultural and touristic development and a bridge for civilizational dialogue and peace.
