Algiers is located on the Mediterranean coast and is the capital and largest city of Algeria. Algeria features glistening white buildings with remarkable architectural beauty. The city has distinct modern and historical areas and boasts a population of more than 3.5 million people. Even though the local terrorist groups have been creating problems, Algiers is still a preferred North African tourist destination. When visiting Algiers, you will want to make sure you visit the following attractions.
Notre Dame d’Afrique is located on the plateau of Bouzaréah at 120m above sea level. It is the most important Cathedral and spiritual site in Algiers. The beautiful basilica, featuring a statue of the Virgin and walls filled with many small memorial plaques, was founded in 1872. The statue was crowned as ‘Queen of Africa’ by the Pope.
Visit the Casbah of Algiers in the remarkable old town area. It’s an important UNESCO world heritage site. This unique Islamic neighborhood that got its name from an Arabic word meaning “citadel” offers plenty for the site-seer. There are old palaces, mosques, Ottoman-style buildings, ancient water fountains and doors as well as the famed Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. The massive 16th century Citadel in the Casbah port area saved the city from various enemies and wars is a notable sight. See the series of cannons at 188m above sea level in Algiers’ stronghold.
Dar Hassan Pacha is a great, historic mansion and a popular attraction. The huge house with numerous large windows, beautiful balconies and elaborate plasterwork is particularly notable for its European-style. The Emperor Napoleon and Empress stayed in this house that bears the name of its original owner, Hassan Pacha.
To learn the history and ethnology of the place, visit the famed Bardo Museum of Prehistory and Ethnography. The great museum located in a grand, 18th century country residence holds an amazing collection of fossils, Neolithic pottery, paintings, rock carvings and old chariots. The various urban artifacts displayed in the ethnography division are amazing. Also, see its central pool in the upper courtyard and pretty gardens. The National Museum of Bardo, presenting lots of native artifacts from different parts of the country is another interesting site. The museum located in a gorgeous Moorish style building has a praiseworthy collection of local ornaments, dresses, weapons, leatherwork as well as the city’s unique tin helmets.
The picturesque Jardin d’Essai is the renowned public garden in Algiers and is the ideal place to stroll and unwind. Jardin d’Essai started as a model farm by the French in the 1830s and is now the best-known natural hothouse. It has streets of palms, various exotic trees, numerous plants and much more to enjoy. Tour The famous Palais des Rais, featuring a row of various waterfront mansions built in the glorious Ottoman style. The beautiful Palace 18, built in 1798, and the art gallery, Centre des Arts, are the major attractions here. Visitors can also watch a lot of impressive shows in the grand compound.…