Sedrata, an ancient city in the province of Ouargla, often referred to by locals as the “hidden” or “buried” city, having vanished beneath the sands due to natural factors such as sandstorms.
The city’s foundation dates back to the 10th century AD, established by the Rustamids and ruled by the Ibadi Persian dynasty, who governed the Central Maghreb – now Algeria – between 776 and 909 AD. After being overthrown, the Rustamids relocated to southeastern Algeria and founded Sedrata.
During the Middle Ages, Sedrata was one of Algeria’s largest cities, renowned for its unique architectural features and rich history. The city thrived culturally and economically for three centuries before its destruction, first in 1077 and then completely in 1274.
Today, Sedrata’s buried architectural and artistic ruins make it a remarkable archaeological site, unearthed during excavations in 1951 and 1952. Sedrata’s spring (Ain Safa), provides the city with water.
Source: Kuwait News Agency