Illizi

Illizi (Amazigh language: Ilizi) is an Algerian town and commune, coextensive with Illizi District, situated in the south-eastern part of Algeria, and capital of Illizi Province. According to the 2008 census it is the largest commune by population in the province, with a population of 17,252, up from 10,163 in 1998, and an annual population growth rate of 5.5%, the highest in the province. It is one of the gates to the Tassili N'Ajjer National Park with caves and partly enclosed rock shelters containing prehistoric drawings dating from 6000 years BC. There are a hotel and two camping sites, as well as many local tourist agencies. During French colonial rule, the town was called Fort Polignac (1909–1962).