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The Casbah of Algiers: A Historical Citadel

Explore the Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its ancient streets, mosques, and palaces reflecting Algeria's rich history.

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The Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the old city or medina of Algiers, dating back to antiquity. Explore its winding alleys, traditional houses, mosques, and Ottoman-era palaces, offering a glimpse into Algeria's rich history and culture.

A brief summary to Casbah ville vue touristique

  • Q3P5+5PH, Rue Rabah SMALA, Casbah, Algiers [El Djazaïr], 16000, DZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Casbah's steep and uneven streets.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to navigate the maze-like alleys and learn about the Casbah's history.
  • Dress respectfully, as the Casbah is a residential area with a strong sense of community.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
  • Try local Algerian cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants in or near the Casbah.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place des Martyrs, a central square in Algiers, the Casbah is easily accessible on foot. Start walking uphill towards the old city, following the signs for 'Casbah'. The entrance to the Casbah is near the Ketchaoua Mosque. Be prepared for steep and narrow streets.

  • Public Transport

    The Algiers Metro has a station at Place des Martyrs, which is a convenient starting point to visit the Casbah. From the metro station, follow the walking directions to reach the entrance of the Casbah. A single metro ticket costs around 50 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Algiers. Ask the driver to take you to Place des Martyrs, which is the closest point to the Casbah accessible by car. From there, follow the walking directions. A short taxi ride in Algiers costs approximately 290 DZD.

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Discover more about Casbah ville vue touristique

The Casbah of Algiers, also known as the Kasbah, is a historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992. The term 'Casbah' refers to the citadel that overlooks the old city. The Casbah corresponds to the old town or medina of Algiers, the capital of Algeria. Likely inhabited since the Neolithic period, the Casbah's history stretches back to antiquity, initially serving as a Phoenician port before becoming Berber and Roman. Founded in the 10th century by the Berbers under the Zirid dynasty, it was enriched by contributions from other Berber dynasties. The Casbah reached its peak during the Regency of Algiers, serving as the seat of political power. The Casbah is an example of Islamic architecture and urban planning of the Arab-Berber medinas. Colonized by the French in 1830, it gradually became marginalized as power shifted to the new city. The Casbah played a central role during the Algerian War, serving as a stronghold for the FLN independence movement. After Algeria gained independence in 1962, the Casbah did not reclaim its former central role and became a marginalized area of the city. Today, it remains a symbol of Algerian culture and a source of artistic inspiration, though threatened by a lack of maintenance. Visitors can explore its labyrinthine streets, admire its Ottoman-style houses, and discover its historical mosques and palaces.

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