Algiers, Algeria
Algiers is the capital of Algeria, dramatically sited on a curved Mediterranean bay. Its whitewashed Casbah (UNESCO World Heritage) climbs the hillside above the modern French-built colonial city, earning it the nickname 'Alger la Blanche' (Algiers the White).
Highlights
- The Casbah of Algiers (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Notre-Dame d'Afrique basilica
- Maqam Echahid (martyrs' monument)
- Bardo and Cherchell national museums
History
Founded as Icosium by Phoenicians, refounded by Berbers in the 10th century, and ruled successively by Almoravids, Almohads, Ottomans (from 1525) and French (from 1830), Algiers became capital of independent Algeria in 1962 after the brutal 1954-62 war of independence.
Economy
Algiers anchors Algeria's oil and gas-based economy. Sonatrach, Africa's largest energy company, is headquartered here. The city is also the country's financial, government and education centre.
Neighborhoods
The Casbah is the historic core; Hydra and El Biar are upscale hill suburbs; Bab El Oued is a populous traditional quarter; Bab Ezzouar east of the centre hosts the modern business district.
Distances from Algiers
Calculate distance and flight time from Algiers to other major African cities: