Mosquee Ketchaoua (Ketchaoua Mosque), Alger

Mosquee Ketchaoua (Ketchaoua Mosque), Alger

The Ketchaoua Mosque, nestled at the base of the Casbah, stands as a testament to Algeria's rich architectural and religious heritage. Originally constructed in 1612 during Ottoman rule, the mosque has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. Under French colonial rule in 1845, it was repurposed as the Cathedral of St. Philippe, serving as a Christian place of worship. However, with Algeria's independence in 1962, the mosque was restored to its original function and regained its status as a revered Islamic sanctuary.

What distinguishes the Ketchaoua Mosque is its remarkable fusion of Moorish and Byzantine architectural styles, which is prominently displayed in its design and ornamentation. The mosque's entrance features a decorative portico supported by four elegant black-veined marble columns, welcoming worshippers and visitors alike into its sacred precincts. Inside, the interior boasts exquisite arcades crafted from white marble columns and adorned with intricate Moorish plasterwork, creating a visually stunning ambiance of spiritual reverence.

The chambers, minarets, and ceilings of the Ketchaoua Mosque showcase meticulous architectural details, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of artisans from centuries past. The mosque's two octagonal minarets, adorned with intricate Byzantine and Moorish designs, stand as iconic symbols overlooking the bustling public square of the Casbah, with the azure waters of the sea beyond. Today, the Ketchaoua Mosque continues to be a revered landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural splendor and immerse themselves in its rich historical and cultural significance.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Alger. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Mosquee Ketchaoua (Ketchaoua Mosque) on Map

Sight Name: Mosquee Ketchaoua (Ketchaoua Mosque)
Sight Location: Alger, Algeria (See walking tours in Alger)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Alger, Algeria

Create Your Own Walk in Alger

Create Your Own Walk in Alger

Creating your own self-guided walk in Alger is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Tour of Alger's Casbah Area

Tour of Alger's Casbah Area

Alger's Casbah, or citadel, once surrounded a majority of the city, protecting it from attack. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Casbah District charms with its narrow streets, bustling markets, winding stairs and historic mosques. Take this tour to visit a fascinating section of Alger and to learn about Algerian history.

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Architectural Tour

Architectural Tour

Alger is a treasure trove of beautifully designed buildings. Structures with vastly different architectural styles sit side by side in harmony with their surroundings. Take this tour and explore Alger's history as reflected in its architecture.

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles