The Enchanting Casbah of Algiers: A Step Back in Time

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi khair. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisal bialsurati!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraj]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'aruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd alsu'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al'ashir walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeniy (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

The Casbah, or Kasbah, has its origins in the 10th century when it was established by the Almoravids as a fortified citadel. The neighborhood flourished under the rule of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century when it became the center of political power in Algeria. The architecture from this period reflects a unique blend of Moorish and Ottoman styles, characterized by narrow winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and intricate tile work.

The Casbah played a pivotal role during the resistance against French colonial rule in the 19th century. Notably, in 1830, the French invasion of Algiers began with the capture of the Casbah, marking the start of a brutal colonial period that lasted for over a century. The neighborhood became a hotbed of resistance, with many uprisings and revolts originating from its labyrinthine alleys.

During the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962), the Casbah served as a crucial stronghold for the National Liberation Front (FLN). The neighborhood was a focal point of urban guerrilla warfare against the French military. The French responded with violent repressions, including the infamous Battle of Algiers in 1957, which led to significant destruction and loss of life within the Casbah.

After gaining independence in 1962, the Casbah faced numerous challenges, including urban decay and economic decline. However, efforts have been made to restore and preserve its historical and cultural heritage. In 1992, the Casbah was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its architectural significance and the need for preservation amidst ongoing urban development.

Today, the Casbah is a living museum of Algerian history and culture, attracting both tourists and locals. Its vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and historical monuments, such as the Ketchaoua Mosque and the Palace of the Dey, are testimony to its rich past. The neighborhood remains a symbol of Algerian identity and resilience, celebrating its diverse cultural influences while facing the challenges of modernization.

The Casbah is located in the heart of Algiers, easily accessible by various means of transport. From Algiers International Airport, you can take a taxi or book a ride through ride-hailing apps. If you are coming from other neighborhoods like El Madania or Belouizdad, the Casbah is a short taxi ride away. Public buses and trams also connect to the city center, from where you can walk to the Casbah.

The Casbah itself is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. Public transport options like buses are available nearby, but they may not directly enter the Casbah. Taxis are a convenient way to reach the Casbah from other areas. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, but be cautious as the terrain can be steep and challenging.

The Casbah is generally safe for tourists during the day, but it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially at night. While the area has a rich cultural heritage, some spots can have higher crime rates, particularly around secluded alleys and less populated areas. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid flashing valuables or large amounts of cash.

In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance or 14 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is located in the city center. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. If you lose your passport or encounter theft, contact your embassy or consulate in Algiers as soon as possible.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in the presence of religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially during prayer times. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and be courteous. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a firm handshake and smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods like couscous and pastries. Don’t refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it may be considered rude.

To experience the Casbah like a local, visit traditional markets and engage with local artisans. Try to learn a few phrases in Arabic or French; locals appreciate the effort. Explore the historical sites, such as the Ketchaoua Mosque and the Palace of the Raïs. Don't hesitate to ask locals for directions or recommendations; they are usually friendly and willing to help.

When visiting the Casbah, be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious settings. During Ramadan, be respectful of those fasting; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.