Algiers

Civitates orbis terrarum. De praecipuis totius universi urbibus. Liber secundus (page 128)

Duquesne fait liberer des caps chretiens apres le bombardement d Alger en 1683

Algiers and Bejaia by Piri Reis

Sm Bombardment of Algiers, August 1816-Luny

Ottoman cannon end of 16th century length 385cm cal 178mm weight 2910 stone projectile founded 8 October 1581 Alger seized 1830

Algiers (Arabic: الجزائر‎, al-Jazā’ir; French: Alger) is the capital and largest city of Algeria. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, in the north-central part of the country, it is one of the principal cities of the Maghreb region and is known for its white buildings, earning it the nickname La Blanche (The White One) in French. Algiers serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Algeria.

History

The area around Algiers has been inhabited by various indigenous Berber tribes since prehistoric times. The city itself was founded by the Phoenicians, who established a trading post there. It later came under the control of the Roman Empire, before being conquered by the Arabs in the 7th century, introducing Islam and the Arabic language. Algiers gained prominence in the 16th century as a base for Barbary pirates, leading to conflict with European powers. In 1830, it was captured by France, becoming an integral part of the French colonial empire until Algeria's independence in 1962.

Geography

Algiers is situated on the west side of a bay of the Mediterranean Sea. The modern part of the city is built on the level ground by the seashore; the old part, the ancient city of the deys, climbs the steep hill behind the modern town and is crowned by the Casbah or citadel, 122 meters above sea level. The city is divided into various districts, including the modern, European-style city center and the older Muslim quarter with its narrow streets and traditional architecture.

Economy

Algiers is the economic hub of Algeria. The city's economy is centered around the port of Algiers, one of the largest and busiest in North Africa, handling the majority of the country's imports and exports. Major industries include petroleum, natural gas, light manufacturing, and food processing. Tourism in Algiers has grown in importance, with visitors drawn to its historical sites, Mediterranean coastline, and cultural events.

Culture

Algiers boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending Berber, Arab, Ottoman, and French influences. The city is home to numerous museums, including the Bardo National Museum of Prehistory and Ethnography, which houses artifacts from Algeria's ancient past. The Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a symbol of the city's history and architecture. Algiers also hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating Algerian music, film, and arts.

Education

The city is a center for education and research in Algeria, hosting several universities and higher education institutions. The University of Algiers is the oldest and one of the most prestigious in the country, offering courses in a wide range of disciplines.

Transportation

Algiers is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city's international airport, Houari Boumediene Airport, serves as a hub for domestic and international flights. Public transportation within Algiers includes buses, trams, and a metro system, which help to alleviate the city's traffic congestion.

See also

• History of Algeria
• Culture of Algeria
• Economy of Algeria