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Bey's Palace: A Glimpse into Ottoman Oran

Explore Bey's Palace in Oran, a national heritage site showcasing Ottoman and Moorish architecture, and immerse yourself in Algeria's rich history.

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Bey's Palace, also known as Palais du Bey, is a historical landmark in Oran, Algeria. Constructed in the 18th century during Ottoman rule, it served as the residence and administrative center for the Bey, showcasing a blend of Moorish and Ottoman architectural styles.

A brief summary to Bey's Palace

  • P942+5CW, Oran, Oran, DZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the palace's architecture and decorations.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Place du 1er Novembre 1954 in central Oran, Bey's Palace is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head east along Boulevard de la Soummam, then turn right onto Rue Larbi Ben M'hidi. Continue straight, and the palace will be on your left, near the Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur d'Oran. Walking is a great way to see the city, and there are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area around Bey's Palace. From the main bus terminal, look for buses heading towards the city center and ask the driver to let you off near the Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur d'Oran. From there, it's a short walk to the palace. A single bus fare typically costs around 20-30 DZD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Oran. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Place du 1er Novembre) to Bey's Palace will typically cost between 200-300 DZD. Ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Bey's Palace

Bey's Palace, or Palais du Bey, stands as a testament to Oran's rich history under Ottoman rule. Constructed in the late 18th century by Bey Mohamed el-Kebir, the palace served as the seat of power for the Ottoman governors. The palace is located in the Sidi al-Houari district, near Mount Marjaju. Oranese people call it “Château Neuf” (New Castle). The palace showcases a blend of Moorish and Ottoman architectural styles, characterized by intricate tile work, ornate wooden ceilings, and expansive courtyards. The complex includes several buildings, courtyards, and gardens, each serving different functions. The main building, Dar El-Soltane, was the official residence of the Bey and his family. The palace also includes a mosque, a hammam (bathhouse), and administrative offices. Large windows were cut into the walls, topped with an ornate flared arch sometimes called an Algerian arch, glazed with petal-shaped windows. The walls themselves were covered with polychrome ceramic tile featuring plant motifs. In 1831, French colonial forces captured Oran, repurposing Bey's Palace for administrative and military functions. Following Algeria's independence in 1962, it was designated a national heritage site and opened to the public as a museum. Today, visitors can explore the palace's historical and architectural wonders, with guided tours available. The palace is equipped with modern visitor facilities, including restrooms, a gift shop, and a café.

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