Dar Mustapha Pacha: A Glimpse into Algiers' Ottoman Past

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Explore Dar Mustapha Pacha in Algiers, a stunningly preserved Ottoman-era palace and museum in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Casbah.

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Dar Mustapha Pacha

Dar Mustapha Pacha, nestled in the Casbah of Algiers, is a beautifully preserved Moorish palace dating back to the late 18th century. Built by the future Dey Mustapha Pacha, it stands as a testament to Ottoman-era architecture and now houses the National Museum of Miniatures, Illumination and Calligraphy.

A brief summary to Dar Mustapha Pacha

Q3P6+69X, Rue Aoua Abdelkader, Casbah, Algiers [El Djazaïr], 16000, DZ
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dar Mustapha Pacha.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful exploration of the palace and its surroundings.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the Casbah's streets are narrow, winding, and uneven.
Dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit any religious sites within the Casbah.

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Casbah

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Getting There

Walking

From anywhere in the central Casbah, Dar Mustapha Pacha is best reached on foot due to the district's narrow, winding streets. Use the Ketchaoua Mosque as a landmark; Dar Mustapha Pacha is located nearby on Rue Aoua Abdelkader. Be prepared for some uphill walking on uneven surfaces.
Public Transport

If arriving from outside the Casbah, take the Algiers Metro Line 1 to Tafourah - Grande Poste station. From there, you can either take a taxi or walk to the Casbah, following signs towards Place de Martyrs and the Ketchaoua Mosque. Buses 4 and 9 also have stops near the Casbah. A single bus or metro fare costs approximately 20 DZD.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Algiers. Ask the driver to take you to 'Dar Mustapha Pacha in the Casbah'. Taxi fares are typically around 50 DZD per kilometer, with a starting fare of 40 DZD. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Casbah should cost between 290 and 500 DZD.

Discover more about Dar Mustapha Pacha

Dar Mustapha Pacha, also known as Palais Mustapha Pacha, is a historic palace located in the heart of the Casbah of Algiers. Constructed between 1798 and 1799 by Mustapha Pacha, who later became the Dey of Algiers, the palace exemplifies Moorish architecture and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers.The palace's main entrance, located on Ahmad and Muhammad Mecheri Street, leads into a sqifa (entrance hall) that opens onto the main courtyard. The courtyard features groined vaults and decorative niches, providing seating areas. Galleries supported by marble columns and arches surround the residential quarters, showcasing decorative tiles and wooden beamed ceilings.Throughout its history, Dar Mustapha Pacha has served various purposes. After Mustapha Pacha's assassination in 1805, the French colonizing forces took over the palace, using it as their headquarters and a winter palace for the French governor. In 1863, it was converted into a library and museum. Today, it houses the National Museum of Miniatures, Illumination and Calligraphy, displaying a rich collection of artwork.Dar Mustapha Pacha was listed as a historical monument in 1887 and, along with the Casbah of Algiers, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. A visit to Dar Mustapha Pacha offers a unique opportunity to explore the architectural marvels and cultural heritage of Ottoman Algiers.