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Grande Mosquée de Constantine: A Timeless Landmark

Explore Constantine's spiritual heart at the Grande Mosquée, a blend of Roman, Islamic, and Ottoman architectural influences.

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The Grande Mosquée de Constantine, also known as Djamaa El Kebir, is a historic mosque in the heart of Constantine, Algeria. Built in 1135 by the Hammadid dynasty and restored in 1766, it stands as a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to Grande Mosquée de Constantine

  • 9J87+937, Rue Larbi Ben M'Hidi, Constantine, Constantine, DZ

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; women should cover their heads, and both men and women should wear modest clothing.
  • Visit during prayer times to witness the mosque's vibrant atmosphere, but be mindful of worshippers.
  • Take your time to appreciate the blend of architectural styles, from Roman columns to Islamic designs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grande Mosquée is located in the heart of Constantine's old city, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Place de la Brèche, walk northeast along Rue Larbi Ben M'Hidi. The mosque will be on your left, a short distance from the Musée National Cirta.

  • Public Transport

    The Constantine tramway provides convenient access to the Grande Mosquée. Alight at the nearest tram stop, and walk a short distance to Rue Larbi Ben M'Hidi. The mosque is a short walk from the tram stop. A single tram fare costs approximately 27 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Constantine. Ask your driver to take you to the Grande Mosquée on Rue Larbi Ben M'Hidi. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 68 DZD and 280 DZD, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about Grande Mosquée de Constantine

The Grande Mosquée de Constantine, or Djamaa El Kebir, is a significant historical and religious site located in the heart of Constantine's medina. Constructed around 1135 AD by the Hammadid dynasty, under the rule of Yahya ibn Abd al-Aziz, the mosque has undergone several expansions and renovations throughout its history. A major restoration occurred in 1766 during the Ottoman era. The mosque closed for further renovations in 2014 and reopened in 2017. Built on the ruins of a Roman temple, the mosque incorporates salvaged columns and capitals, many of which are Corinthian in style. The columns adjacent to the mihrab (a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca) have retained their original Roman placement and are taller than the others. The mihrab itself shares similarities with Fatimid art, resembling the main entrance of the al-Aqmar mosque. The prayer hall's nave is slightly off-center due to urban renovations during the French occupation in the mid-19th century. The façade and minaret also date back to this period. The Grande Mosquée is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Constantine's architectural and cultural heritage. Its blend of Roman, Hammadid, and Ottoman influences makes it a unique and historically significant landmark.

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