Aïdour: Oran's Majestic Mountain Peak

Aïdour, or Murdjadjo, stands as a majestic natural formation just west of Oran, Algeria, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Rising to a height of 429.3 meters, the mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of Oran and the Mediterranean Sea. The name Aïdour dates back to the 12th century, while older names include Mount Guedera. The Turks called it Mourdjadjo. The mountain's eastern end features a plateau and a steep hill. The mountain is known for its diverse flora, including Aleppo pines, Barbary fig trees, and agaves. The slopes are covered in pine forests and cork oak forests. The area provides opportunities to engage with local culture, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about local customs. Several historical structures are located on Aïdour, including the Fort of Santa Cruz and the Chapel of Santa Cruz. The Spanish built the Fort of Santa Cruz in 1563 for strategic defense. The chapel was constructed in 1850 after a severe cholera epidemic. The mountain has been the site of battles between the Ottomans and Spaniards.