Jugurtha’s Table

Near Kalaat Senan, close to the Algerian border, a flat-topped mountain rises about 600 m above the plain. A stairway cut into the rock, 136 steps, leads to a summit plateau of about 80 hectares with cisterns, a small mosque and a view far into Algeria.

History

Tradition links it to the Numidian king Jugurtha, who fought Rome around 110 BC. In the 18th century, the rebel Senan held it against the Bey’s troops and gave the town its name.

Customs

Go with a local guide from Kalaat Senan. The climb is short but steep: no flip-flops.

Food

Bring water and a picnic: there is nothing on top.

Best time

Spring and autumn. Winter can bring snow, summer is hot.

The plateau was once a valley floor: erosion wore away the softer hills around it and left the hard limestone standing.