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Porte du Santon: A Glimpse into Oran's Past

Explore the historic Porte du Santon in Oran, a Spanish-built gate offering a glimpse into Algeria's colonial past and architectural heritage.

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The Porte du Santon, or Santon Gate, is a historical landmark in Oran, Algeria, dating back to 1754. Built by the Spanish, it once served as a crucial defense point for the city, offering a glimpse into Oran's rich colonial past.

A brief summary to Porte du Santon

  • P84V+78C, Oran, Hai El Marsa, DZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the historic Sidi El Houari district where the gate is located.
  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the architecture and surrounding area. The gate is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, except Fridays.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Fort Santa Cruz for a comprehensive historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place du 1er Novembre 1954 in the city center, walk north along Boulevard de la Soummam. Continue onto Rue de la Bastille, then turn left onto Rue Sidi Mohamed Dahli. The Porte du Santon will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no specific costs involved in reaching the gate on foot.

  • Public Transport

    From the Oran train station, take the Tramway Line T1 towards Sidi Maarouf. Get off at the 'Bastille' stop. From there, walk north on Rue de la Bastille, then turn left onto Rue Sidi Mohamed Dahli. The Porte du Santon will be on your right. A single tram ticket costs 40 DZD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Yassir are readily available in Oran. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Place du 1er Novembre 1954) to Porte du Santon typically costs around 200-300 DZD. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Porte du Santon

The Porte du Santon, nestled in Oran's Sidi El Houari district, stands as a testament to the city's layered history. Constructed in 1754 by the Spanish, the gate was strategically positioned at the foot of Mount Murdjadjo, along the route leading to the Fort of Santa Cruz. Known locally as Bab El Hamra, the 'Red Gate', it formed a part of Oran's defense system, protecting the city from the mountain side. This fort-like structure, featuring two towers, was particularly important because the port of Mers El Kébir was, at that time, the primary link between Oran and Tlemcen. The hill that connects to the Porte du Santon made it a vital point for controlling access to the city. Today, the Porte du Santon attracts tourists, offering a tangible link to Oran's past. Along with the Spanish Gate and other historical sites, it represents a well-preserved piece of Oran's Spanish heritage from the 16th to 18th centuries. While not as imposing as the nearby Fort Santa Cruz, the Porte du Santon provides a quieter, more intimate encounter with Oran's history. Its location in the old Sidi El Houari district adds to its charm, inviting visitors to explore the surrounding area and discover more of Oran's cultural treasures.

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