Dar Hassan Pacha
Dar Hassan Pacha: A Glimpse into Algiers' History
Ketchaoua Mosque: A Symbol of Algiers
Explore the Ketchaoua Mosque in Algiers, a historic landmark blending Moorish and Byzantine architecture in the heart of the Casbah.
The Ketchaoua Mosque in Algiers stands as a powerful symbol of the city's layered history. Originally built in the 17th century during Ottoman rule, it was later transformed into a cathedral under French colonization before being restored as a mosque in 1962, reflecting Algeria's journey to independence. Its architecture uniquely blends Moorish and Byzantine styles.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ketchaoua Mosque
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Q3P6+287, Casbah, Algiers [El Djazaïr], 16000, DZ
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Getting There
Walking
The Ketchaoua Mosque is located in the heart of the Casbah. From Place de Martyrs, a central square in the lower Casbah, the mosque is easily accessible on foot via a short uphill walk. The walk provides an immersive experience of the Casbah's narrow, winding streets. No costs are involved.
Public Transport
From the Tafourah - Grande Poste metro station, take the bus line 100 to Place de Martyrs. The bus ride is short and offers a glimpse into the city. From there, the mosque is a short walk away. A single bus ticket costs approximately 50 DZD.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Algiers. A taxi from the city center to the Ketchaoua Mosque in the Casbah typically takes around 10 minutes, but can vary based on traffic. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting the journey, as taximeters are not always used. The estimated cost is between 290 and 500 DZD for a 5-8km ride.
Local tips
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Dress modestly when visiting the mosque to respect local customs and religious traditions.
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Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
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Explore the surrounding Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow streets, shops, and traditional buildings.
Discover more about Ketchaoua Mosque
The Ketchaoua Mosque, also known as Djamaa Ketchaoua, is a prominent mosque in Algiers, located in the historic Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its location at the foot of the Casbah's steep stairways made it a focal point of pre-colonial Algiers.The mosque's history is deeply intertwined with the city's past. While some accounts suggest a mosque existed on the site as early as the 14th century, confirmed records date back to 1612 during the Ottoman period. In 1838, after the French conquest, it was converted into the Cathedral of St. Philippe. This conversion involved demolishing the old mosque and constructing a new church, which remained a cathedral until Algeria's independence in 1962. The restoration of the cathedral back into the Ketchaoua Mosque is seen as a symbol of Algeria's recovered identity.The mosque's architecture is a captivating blend of Moorish and Byzantine designs. The main entrance is reached by a flight of 23 steps, leading to an ornamented portico supported by four black-veined marble columns. Inside, arcades of white marble columns create a stunning visual effect, enhanced by intricate Moorish plasterwork. Two octagonal minarets flank the entrance, showcasing Byzantine and Moorish decorations.
A brief summary to Ketchaoua Mosque
Use Ketchaoua Mosque as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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