Martyrs Memorial: A Symbol of Algerian Independence
Visit the Martyrs Memorial in Algiers, a towering monument honoring Algeria's independence and offering panoramic city views.
The Martyrs Memorial, or Maqam Echahid, is a striking concrete monument commemorating Algeria's war for independence. Inaugurated on July 5, 1982, the 20th anniversary of Algeria's independence, it honors the hundreds of thousands of Algerians who lost their lives during the war against France from 1954 to 1962. The monument, designed by Algerian architect Bachir Yellès in collaboration with Polish engineers, features three towering palm leaves that intertwine to shelter the "Eternal Flame". Each palm leaf represents a stage of Algeria's struggle, with a statue of a soldier at its base. The memorial stands 92 meters (302 ft) tall and is built on the site of an ancient military fort, overlooking the city of Algiers and the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the National Museum of Moudjahid, located in the lower section of the monument, which showcases artifacts and documents related to Algeria's history. The memorial serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, hosting official ceremonies on July 5 to commemorate the martyrs.
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months to avoid the intense summer heat.
- Take the aerial tramway for a scenic route to the monument.
- Explore the National Museum of Moudjahid to learn more about Algeria's struggle for independence.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Algiers and the Mediterranean Sea from the memorial site.
A brief summary to Martyrs Memorial
- Chemin Omar Kechkar, El Madania, Diar el Mahçoul, DZ
- +213772142535
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Algiers Central Station (Gare d'Alger), take tram line T1 towards El Madania. Get off at the 'El Madania' stop. Walk northeast on Rue des Frères Menaï towards Chemin Omar Kechkar for about 10 minutes until you reach the Martyrs Memorial on your left. The tram fare is approximately 50 DZD.
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Taxi
Hail a taxi from anywhere in Algiers and ask to go to 'Martyrs Memorial' (مَذْهَاب الشُّهَدَاء). The ride should take 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running; the typical fare ranges from 200 to 400 DZD.
