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Ali Bichin Mosque: A Venetian Legacy in Algiers

Explore the Ali Bichin Mosque in Algiers, a historic treasure blending Ottoman and Maghrebi architecture within the UNESCO-listed Casbah.

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The Ali Bichin Mosque, also known as Zawj Euyun Mosque, stands as a testament to Algiers' rich history. Built in 1622 by Ali Bichin, a Venetian who converted to Islam, the mosque showcases a blend of Ottoman and Maghrebi architectural styles within the UNESCO-listed Casbah.

A brief summary to Ali Bichin Mosque

  • Q3P6+RQ7, Rue Pr Mohamed SOUALAH, Casbah, Algiers [El Djazaïr], DZ

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the mosque out of respect for local customs.
  • Explore the surrounding Casbah for a complete cultural experience, but be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter atmosphere and better lighting for photography.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ali Bichin Mosque is located in the lower Casbah area, near Bab El-Oued Street. From Place des Martyrs, walk uphill into the Casbah, following the main street. The mosque is located at a major intersection. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Be prepared for steep inclines and narrow, winding streets.

  • Public Transport

    From Tafourah - Grande Poste metro station, take the bus line 100 to Place de Martyrs. From there, walk uphill into the Casbah (approximately 10-15 minutes) following the main street. The mosque is located at a major intersection. Bus fare is approximately 20-45 DZD. A 10-ticket carnet costs around 400 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Algiers. Ask the driver to take you to "Mosquée Ali Bitchin dans la Casbah". Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Casbah should cost around 300-500 DZD. The starting price of a taxi in Algiers is 40 DZD, with each KM priced at 50 DZD.

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Discover more about Ali Bichin Mosque

Nestled in the heart of the Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ali Bichin Mosque is a captivating historical landmark. Constructed in 1622, the mosque owes its existence to Ali Bichin, an intriguing figure believed to have been a Venetian named Piccini or Puccini, who converted to Islam and became a Grand Admiral in Algiers. His story, from a possible captive to a prominent leader, adds to the mosque's allure. The mosque's architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Ottoman and Maghrebi influences. Originally, the mosque complex spanned 500 square meters and comprised three floors, several rooms, shops, a bakery, a hammam (bathhouse), a mill, and even an inn. The hammam was particularly popular. The open prayer hall features columns and an octagonal dome. Galleries surround the prayer hall on three sides, with double galleries on the side facing the entrance and directly across from the mihrab. Over the centuries, the mosque has witnessed significant events. In 1703, it was briefly renamed "Sidi al-Mahdi Mosque". During the French occupation, the minaret's height was reduced, and the mosque was repurposed as a military pharmacy and later as a church in 1843, resulting in alterations to its Islamic architectural features. After Algeria's independence, it was reconsecrated as a mosque, with the Christian cross removed from the minaret. Renovations in 2010 expanded its capacity, allowing it to accommodate more worshippers.

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