Algiers, Algeria Travel facts

Algiers, Algeria
‘Algerian Pompeii’

Size - Algeria’s land mass is the largest of any African country, and the 10th largest in the world. Its area exceeds 900,000 square miles — four times the size of Texas — although nearly 90% of this land is in the Sahara Desert, and mostly uninhabited.

History - Algeria has a long and fascinating history. It was a Phoenician trading hub, and later a Roman colony. Prior to French occupation in 1830, it was a stronghold for Barbary pirates. In Algiers, you can visit the Martyrs’ Memorial

to those who fought and died for Algeria’s independence, won in 1962. The 300-foot memorial features three giant palm fronds joined at the top by a dome that protects an eternal flame. It’s just one of many impressive monuments and architectural treasures in the city.

Others include:
Great Mosque of Algiers.

Built in 1097, it is the oldest mosque in the city, and a rare remaining example of Almoravid architecture.
Djama’a al-Djedid Mosque.

Built in 1660, it combines Ottoman style with Turkish, Italian and Andalusian architecture.
Notre Dame d’Afrique.

Built in 1872, this Neo-Byzantine-style Catholic basilica is a near-copy of the cathedral in Marseille, France.

There are other antiquities to explore, including the ancient Roman ruins at Timgad — dubbed the “Algerian Pompeii.”

But after all your sightseeing in arid climates, perhaps you’re ready to spend some time by the sea. You can do this at Sidi Fredj,

one of Algeria’s most popular seaside resort towns. Or, better yet, you can cool off at Aquafortland, a waterpark and spa in Algiers that features three swimming pools and four water slides.

Fun Fact: Most of Algeria’s economy is driven by oil and natural gas exports. It’s external debt is extremely low. Debt-free is a great goal for all of us to have!

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