Thaletat: The Hand of the Jew
Explore Thaletat, the 'Hand of the Jew,' in Kabylie's Djurdjura Mountains for panoramic views and a glimpse into local history and legends.
Thaletat, a majestic peak in the Djurdjura mountain range, stands at 1,638 meters and is also known as the 'Hand of the Jew'. The name 'Thaletat' means 'auricular' or 'little finger' in the Kabyle language. The French named it 'Main du Juif' (Hand of the Jew) because locals said it resembled a raised hand with six fingers; legend says it was a place of prayer for a Jewish ascetic. Villages like Timeghras and Aït-Boumehdi have historically competed for the territory surrounding Thaletat, a region rich in water, pastures, and arable land. According to oral accounts, the conflict between the two villages led to an arbitration that resulted in the founding of Aït Abdellali. For tourists, the southern slope of Thaletat is relatively accessible by road from Bouira. The route passes through the Hamza plain, alongside the Haïzer massif, and ascends towards the Tikjda ski resort. The road winds along the Akouker peaks, offering stunning views of the Kabylie region. A vantage point near Thaletat provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking around Thaletat, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike, as there are limited facilities near the mountain.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as mountain conditions can change rapidly.
A brief summary to Thaletat
- F6J3+66, Aït Boumahdi, DZ
Getting There
-
Driving
From Aït Boumahdi, follow the road towards Djurdjura National Park. The journey to the area near Thaletat takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Parking is available near the base of the mountain but can be limited during peak season.
-
Public Transport
Local buses connect Aït Boumahdi with nearby towns and villages. From the bus stop closest to Thaletat, it's a moderate walk to the mountain. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.
