Tag: mosques

  • Djemaa el-Djedid

    At approximately three hundred and fifty years old, the Djemaa el-Djedid Mosque is by no means a new religious site, as the name reflects. The Djemaa el-Djedid Mosque was constructed in 1660, during the Ottoman period, and even though its designation changed a few times over the centuries, and reconstruction was done to suit its new purposes, the building survived the French onslaught, which ...

  • Casbah of Algiers

    In 1992, UNESCO recognized a site in Algeria that is not only historical and fascinating, but which is still home to thousands of residents, namely the Casbah of Algiers. It is one of the most visited and impressive attractions in Algiers, and is a landmark to the city and a monument to its past. Originally constructed on the old Icosium ruins, the Casbash of Algiers has been transformed ...

  • M'Zab Valley

    In 1982, UNESCO recognized the M’Zab Valley as a World Heritage Site, not only because of its beauty, but the significance of the towns and villages that are located within this region of Algeria. The towns have adapted to suit their environment, while using traditional and ingenious methods to create environmentally friendly structures that blend into the landscapes of the M’Zab Valley. ...

  • Religious Sites

    With Islam being the dominant religion of Algeria, it comes as no surprise that the majority of the country’s sacred and religious sites are connected to the Islamic faith. One or more mosques can be found in virtually every Algerian town and city. While the primary purpose of a mosque is as a center of worship, it is also a place for learning and for taking care of matters relating to the ...

  • Great Mosque of Algiers

    Located on the Rue de la Marine in Algeria's capital city, the Great Mosque of Algiers is a superb example of Almoravid architecture, one of the few remaining in North Africa. The Great Mosque of Algiers, also known as the El Jedid Mosque, was built in 1097 under the direction of Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf (1106-1142), an Almoravid ruler. In 1324 the Sultan of Tlemcen, Abu Tachfin added the ...

  • Ghardaia

    Ghardaia is a town and wilaya (province) located in eastern Algeria. It is situated in the heart of the Mezab valley, which is the home of the Ibadi Muslim sect in Algeria. Ghardaia is truly a sight to see as the entire city is mostly made up of original medieval architecture that has been preserved remarkably well. The M'zab valley wherein Ghardaia lies is part of an official UNESCO World ...

  • Oran

    Oran is perhaps most famous for being one of the birthplaces of the rai music style. This inventive form of music is one of the more modern music styles that is popularly enjoyed in the various parts of Algeria and all over the world. The easy going and liberal atmosphere that pervades the city of Oran is clearly evident in this style of music. Initially performed only by men, it soon became ...

  • Religion

    Islam is the official religion in Algeria and is practiced by the majority of the country's inhabitants. Sunni Islam or Muslim religion permeates Algeria in practically every aspect of life. Whilst not all followers are orthodox, Islam gives Algeria its cultural and social identity and its principles govern much of the nations ethics and behavior. Whilst Islam is the dominant religion in ...