Oran In Algeria, What Is There Not To Miss?
Oran, in Algeria, is a port city where you can see many vestiges of the passage of the Spanish or the French. Therefore, it is not surprising that it is considered by many as the most European city in Africa. Do you want to know what you can visit in it? We will tell you.
Fort of Santa Cruz
It is a military stronghold that was built between 1577 and 1604, using the fort that the Ottoman Empire had built earlier in this same place.
It belonged to Spain when it exercised its sovereignty in Oran and was interested in the strategic and fishing importance of this place. In it, in addition, the governors were housed, guarded by the military forces.
From this fort you can enjoy magnificent views. This is because it is located more than 400 meters high. More specifically, it is located at the top of Pic d’Aidour, on the Gulf of Oran and overlooking the Mediterranean.
Along with the Santa Cruz fort, two other fortifications should be mentioned. On the one hand, the fort de la Moune, at the western end of the port. On the other, the fort of San Felipe, which replaced the old Castillo de los Santos, erected by the Spanish in the center of the city. They are all connected by tunnels.
Chapel of Our Lady of Santa Cruz
Near the fort of Santa Cruz is the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Salud. It is a chapel built by the French military in 1860. Today it is one of the largest tourist attractions in Oran, in Algeria.
Sacred Heart Cathedral
It is located in Kahina Square, one of the most central, popular and recommended in Oran. Therefore, it is impossible not to find it. When you are in front of it, you will be captivated by the unique and beautifully decorated façade and its towers.
On the other hand, it is important to note that the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart no longer has a religious use. Today it houses a public library inside .
Ahmed Sabana National Museum
The exhibition has several rooms in which a review of the history of art in Algeria is carried out. In the museum you can admire objects from Carthaginians and Romans, among other archaeological treasures.
However, the most important area is the one dedicated to the War of Independence, the most significant event in the country in recent decades. In fact, the museum owes its name to one of the most remembered fighters of the conflict.
The Great Mosque, one of the treasures of Oran in Algeria
Also known as the Hasan Pachá Mosque, it was built at the end of the 18th century after the expulsion of the Spanish. It is a part of the Muslim heritage that can be found in Oran, in Algeria, and it can be visited from the inside! Therefore, do not miss the opportunity to enter to see it.
On the other hand, the Great Mosque, which has an octagonal minaret, is located in La Blanca, the Turkish old town. Without a doubt, one more sample of the cultural heterogeneity of this incredible city that was also occupied by the Ottomans.
In the area, it is also advisable to visit the Saint Louis College. And don’t miss the palace of King Bey d’Oran, perhaps the most famous of all the city’s architectural remains. To discover these and other charms, just take a walk.
Verdure Theater
It is a magnificent open-air theater (taking advantage of the good weather in the city) in which raï music shows are held every year . Do not forget that Oran is the cradle of this type of folk music. You do not know her? Well, then you should consult the cultural program and attend one of the exhibitions.
As we have just seen, Oran, in Algeria, has many attractions that you cannot miss. Keep this in mind if you visit this North African country.
