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National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art: A Journey Through Algerian History

Discover Algeria's ancient roots and Islamic heritage at Algiers' National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art, the oldest of its kind in Africa.

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Explore Algeria's rich cultural heritage at the National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art in Algiers, the oldest museum in Algeria and Africa, showcasing artifacts from the Libyan-Punic era to the 20th century. Discover Roman sculptures, intricate mosaics, and exquisite Islamic art in two distinct pavilions.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore both the Antiquities and Islamic Art sections.
  • Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash to protect the delicate artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Jardin d'Essai du Hamma, walk west along Rue Mohamed Belouizdad, then turn left onto Boulevard Colonel Krim Belkacem. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 20-25 minutes. There are no tolls or specific access fees for walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Tafourah - Grande Poste metro station, take the metro to the 1er Mai station. From there, walk along Boulevard Colonel Krim Belkacem; the museum will be on your left. A single metro ticket costs approximately 50 DZD. The total travel time is about 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Algiers. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Grande Poste) to the museum typically costs between 290 and 500 DZD, depending on traffic and negotiation. Ensure the driver is aware of the destination and agree on the fare beforehand, as meters are not commonly used. The journey usually takes 10-15 minutes.

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The National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art in Algiers stands as a testament to Algeria's vibrant history and cultural diversity. As the oldest museum in both Algeria and Africa, its collection, established in 1835, offers a comprehensive journey through time, from the pre-Islamic era to the 20th century. The museum is divided into two main sections: Antiquities and Islamic Art, each housed in separate buildings. The Antiquities section showcases Algeria's pre-Islamic past with a rich collection of mosaics, sculptures, Libyan and Latin inscriptions, coins, medals, and artifacts made of bronze, ivory, bone, ceramics, and wood. These items provide insights into the civilizations that once thrived in the region, highlighting Algeria's significance in the Mediterranean world. The Islamic Art section, which was formed from the first collection of 1854, features treasures from Algeria, North Africa and beyond. The collection includes sculpted plasterboard from 10th-century Sedrata, marble or plaster sculptures from the 11th-century Qal'a of Beni Hammad, and the minbar of the Great Mosque of Algiers. Ottoman-era embroidery, clothing, ceramics, weapons, jewellery, and manuscripts further enrich this section, showcasing the craftsmanship of North Africa. Visitors can also explore the museum's numismatic collection, which is exhibited in a dedicated reading room inaugurated in 2006. This collection offers a comprehensive look at Algeria's historical currency and medals, providing additional context to the country's rich heritage. The museum's architecture blends modern and traditional styles, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

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