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Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran: A Testament to History and Architecture

Explore Oran's Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, a former church turned library, blending neo-Gothic and Moorish architecture, reflecting Algeria's colonial past.

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The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran, a former Roman Catholic church, stands as a captivating blend of neo-Gothic and Moorish architectural styles. Built during the French colonial period, it now serves as a public library, bridging Oran's past and present.

A brief summary to Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran

Local tips

  • Visit during opening hours to explore the library and admire the cathedral's interior architecture.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby landmarks like Place du 1er Novembre and the Ahmed Zabana National Museum.
  • Check if photography is allowed inside the library to capture the unique blend of church and library elements.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place du 1er Novembre in central Oran, head south towards Rue des Frères Menaï. Continue to Rue de l'Emir Abdelkader, turn right, and walk until Boulevard de l'Emir Abdelkader. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    From Oran's central bus station, take bus line 11 or 12 towards Hai Emir. Alight at the 'Hai Emir' stop and walk north on Rue de l'Emir Abdelkader for approximately 10 minutes. The Cathedral will be on your right. A single bus fare costs approximately 40 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Oran. Request a ride to 'Cathedral of the Sacred Heart' in Hai Emir, or provide the address M9X3+XCW. The journey from the city center typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. A short taxi ride in Oran costs approximately 600 DZD.

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Discover more about Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran

Rising majestically in the Hai Emir neighborhood of Oran, Algeria, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, also known as Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur d'Oran, is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural diversity. Constructed between 1904 and 1913, this former Roman Catholic church showcases a unique blend of neo-Gothic and Moorish architectural styles, a reflection of Oran's cultural fusion during the French colonial period. The cathedral was designed by Albert Ballu, the architect for the Government of Algeria, with construction by Auguste and Gustave Perret. Notably, the structure was one of the first churches built using reinforced concrete in French overseas territories. Originally built to serve the growing European population in Oran, the cathedral was consecrated on April 30, 1930. However, after Algeria gained independence in 1962, the building was deconsecrated and repurposed. In 1984, it became a regional library, and in 1996, it transitioned into a public library, known as the "Bibliothèque Principale d'Oran". As you approach the cathedral, you're greeted by its impressive white facade adorned with intricate details and towering spires. Inside, the vast nave and vaulted ceilings create a sense of awe, while stained glass windows filter sunlight into a spectrum of colors. Although no longer a religious site, the cathedral retains its architectural grandeur and historical significance, drawing visitors to admire its beauty and contemplate its role in Oran's history. The altar, made of reinforced concrete, was never blessed due to the material not being recognized by canon law. The cathedral also served as the setting for scenes in Albert Camus' novel 'The Plague'.

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