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

Discover Oran's architectural gem, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, a former church turned library, blending history and culture in a unique setting.

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The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran, a former Roman Catholic church, stands as a remarkable architectural landmark in Oran, Algeria. Built between 1904 and 1913, it showcases a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Moorish styles. Deconsecrated in 1984, it now serves as a public library, preserving its cultural significance while adapting to the needs of the community.

A brief summary to Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to explore the library and admire the cathedral's architecture.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding area to discover local cafes and shops.
  • Check out the mosaic facade and the grand silhouette of the cathedral against the sky.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is located in central Oran and is easily accessible by foot from many points in the city center. From Place d'Armes, walk east along Boulevard de la Soummam. The cathedral will be on your left after a few blocks. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Oran has a reliable tram system. The closest tram stop to the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is likely 'Place du 1er Novembre'. From there, walk east along Boulevard de la Soummam. The cathedral will be on your left after a few blocks. A single tram ticket costs 40 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Oran. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart should cost approximately 200-300 DZD. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Oran

Rising majestically in the heart of Oran, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural diversity. Constructed during the French colonial era between 1904 and 1913, the cathedral was designed by Albert Ballu, and its structure was reinforced by Auguste and Gustave Perret, pioneering the use of reinforced concrete in religious buildings in French overseas territories. The cathedral's architecture is a captivating blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Moorish styles, making it a unique and recognizable landmark. Originally built to serve the growing European population in Oran, the cathedral was consecrated in 1930. However, after Algeria gained independence, the building was deconsecrated in 1984 and transformed into a regional library. In 1996, it became a public library, continuing to serve the community as a center for knowledge and culture. Today, visitors can admire the cathedral's distinctive white facade and its two imposing towers. While the interior no longer functions as a religious space, it still houses vestiges of its past, including the organ, chancel, and an altar adorned with crucifixes. The shelves of books and tables of students create a unique juxtaposition of the sacred and the secular, offering a space for reflection on Algeria's complex history. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart stands as a symbol of Oran's diverse heritage, blending its colonial past with its modern identity.

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