Discover ALGIERS “The White”
The Casbah means “the citadel”. It is the historic district of Algiers which includes the old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit it on foot through a maze of alleys between houses which sometimes conceal hidden treasures. It is in the Casbah that we find the most beautiful mosques in the city. The Casbah is surrounded by a citadel which dates from the 16th century. Medersas (schools) and mausoleums will punctuate your visit.
The Jamaa al-Jdid mosque is located in the lower Kasbah, near the sea, which earned it the nickname of the Mosque of the Fishery. It was built in 1660 in the Ottoman style. Its domes are indeed reminiscent of those of Istanbul, but its 27-meter high minaret is in the Maghreb style with a clock that comes from the old Jenina Palace.
The Hamma Test Garden is considered one of the most important test and acclimatization gardens in the world. It is a botanical jewel of more than 3,000 plant species offering a real breath of fresh air in the center of Algiers. Founded in 1832, these gardens are said to be the oldest of their kind in Algeria and are one of the main attractions of the capital. Divided into a French garden, an English garden and a zoo, there are also statues and many animals.
Notre Dame D’Afrique: Impressive Roman-style Catholic church overlooks the Bay of Algiers, perched atop a cliff some 125 meters above the sea. Built in the 19th century, its French architect (Jean-Eugène Fromageau ) employed the same techniques and styles (Roman-Byzantine) used at the time in France. She is notably considered as “the twin sister of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde church in Marseille. A daily mass in French is given, but many visitors come here simply to admire the superb architecture and views.
La Grande Poste D’Alger: In addition to housing the Algiers post office, the Grande Poste d’Alger is a magnificent building that you absolutely must see. Its neo-Moorish style can be admired both inside and out. Take the opportunity to drop off your postcards!
The Martyr Memorial: This is an imposing monument to the dead of the Algerian War of Independence erected in 1982 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the event. It is located on the heights of Algiers, in the town of El Madania, and overlooks, among others, the Jardin d’Essai.
