The Botanical Gardens in Algiers are known locally as the Jardin d'Essai du Hamma and have finally reopened after a lengthy period of restoration. Established in 1832, these gardens are said to be the oldest of their kind in Algeria and are one of the capital's top attractions. Divided into a French garden, English garden and zoo area, there's plenty to see and do, with thousands of plant and animal species. The gardens now also feature restaurants and an information centre for visitors.
Many people choose to holiday in Algeria, taking advantage of the sunny weather, hot temperatures and beautiful Mediterranean coastline, which lies on the northern side of the country. Popular sandy beaches surround Algiers, as well as being based along the easterly Turquoise Coast, where the Sidi Ferruch peninsula resides. There are also a number of buzzing beach resorts to be found around the Oran region, such as Ain El Turk, Les Andalouses, Canastel, Mostaganem and also Sablettes. Lying next to the Gulf of Stora, the city of Skikda is also famed for its uncrowded Mediterreanean beachfront and coastal hotels.
Algeria is home to several World Heritage Sites, including the fascinating town of Tipaza. Once a Roman military colony, Tipaza has some fascinating ruins. Nestled among trees and palms are the remains of the town's Great Basilica, its Roman baths and amphitheatre, and numerous mosaics.
On the edge of the Sahara Desert can be found an impressive collection of prehistoric cave paintings, within the mountain range named the Tassili n'Ajjer (Plateau of the Rivers). More than 15,000 examples of artwork form a unique perspective on the people who once used to inhabit the Djanet region of Algeria. The area surrounding the rock art also has plenty of interesting geological features, including rock pillars that look like a 'forest of trees'.
The casbah of Algiers remains one of the world's most mythical labyrinths: "a masterpiece of architecture and town planning" according to Le Corbusier, the casbah's huddled houses tumble down the hill-side before seemingly spilling over into the sea.
Situated in a mountainous site of extraordinary beauty, the ruins of the first capital of the Hammadid emirs, founded in 1007 and demolished in 1152, provide an authentic picture of a fortified Muslim city crowned by one of North Africa's largest mosques.
10-10-2017