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Notre-Dame d'Afrique

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Basilica of Notre-Dame d'Afrique is a prominent Roman Catholic church perched on a 124-meter-high cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Algiers. Constructed between 1858 and 1872, the building is a masterpiece of Neo-Byzantine architecture, designed by Jean-Eugène Fromageau. Its exterior is characterized by a large central dome and intricate stonework that incorporates both European and North African decorative elements. Inside, the basilica is adorned with spirited blue mosaics and religious artwork, featuring a celebrated statue of the Black Virgin Mary. A significant feature is the inscription in the apse that reads, 'Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims,' highlighting the site's role as a symbol of interfaith harmony. The basilica serves as a spiritual lighthouse for the city, visible from miles away across the water. Following damage from the 2003 earthquake, a major restoration project was completed in 2010 to preserve its structural integrity and artistic heritage. Today, it remains one of the most visited historical landmarks in the Algerian capital.

Location: Algeria
Top sights: Théâtre de verdure désaffecté · Vista point · Notre Dame d'Afrique
Nearby: Burj Al Kifan (14 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	14	13	15	16	19	22	25	26	24	22	18	15
Rain mm	84	67	60	53	39	11	5	12	39	64	107	85

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Notre-Dame d'Afrique basilica in Algiers is open to visitors and can be seen both from outside and inside. The interior is richly decorated and has an impressive view over the Mediterranean Sea.

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Typical hours

The basilica typically has daily opening hours which may vary by season and mass schedule. Usually, it is open from morning until late afternoon, with breaks around lunchtime.

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Photography

Photography inside is allowed without flash to preserve the sacred atmosphere. From the terrace in front of the basilica, there is a fantastic panoramic view of the Bay of Algiers - a must for photographers.

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Time needed

For a visit to the basilica including the terrace and interior, allow about 45 minutes to an hour. Those wanting to enjoy the view longer can easily spend an hour and a half.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a trip to the Kasbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site just about 15 minutes away by taxi. The coastal road Corniche is also worth a detour.

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Getting there

The basilica is located in the Bologhine ibn Ziri district above the Bay of Algiers. Best reached by taxi or minibus ("navette") from the city center; the walk up is steep but rewarding.

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Insider tip

Visit the basilica late in the morning for optimal light for photos and a sweeping sea view. Bring a hat as it can get very hot in summer with little shade.

Geography

Coordinates

36.80080, 3.04280

Facts

Built over a period of 14 years, completed in 1872
Designed by architect Jean-Eugène Fromageau in Neo-Byzantine style
Located at an altitude of 124 meters on a cliff
Features a unique interfaith prayer inscription in the apse
Known for the bronze statue of the Black Virgin Mary
Underwent a 3-year restoration starting in 2007

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Palace of the Dey2 km · SEExplore →

Port of Algiers3 km · SEExplore →

Algiers5 km · SExplore →

Martyrs' Memorial7 km · SEExplore →

Lighthouse of Cap Caxine8 km · WExplore →

Algiers Opera House11 km · SWExplore →

Great Mosque of Algiers11 km · SEExplore →

Hamma Botanical Garden12 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Notre-Dame d'Afrique (6)

Théâtre de verdure désaffecté🎭 culture

An abandoned open-air green theatre now surrounded by creeping vegetation.

Vista point📍 landmark

A scenic coastal lookout offering elevated vistas over the surrounding Mediterranean cityscape.

Notre Dame d'Afrique 🌿 nature

A photogenic viewpoint offering impressive panoramas near the famous Notre Dame d'Afrique basilica.

Mosquée El-Oumma ⛪ religious

An elegant neighborhood mosque serving as a prominent Islamic place of worship in the area.

🌐 marw.dz

Monument aux Morts 🏺 historical

A solemn memorial monument dedicated to the fallen soldiers of past conflicts.

Maison de jeunes 🎭 culture

A local community centre dedicated to promoting youth arts, culture, and social activities.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about this basilica?

Its inscription 'Pray for us and for the Muslims' is a symbol of coexistence.

What are the opening hours?

Usually open daily from 11:00 to 12:30 and 15:00 to 17:30.

Is there a good view from there?

Yes, it gives a panoramic view of the Bay of Algiers.

Is the entry free?

Entry to the basilica is free, donations are welcome.

Is there a cable car to the church?

Yes, a cable car connects the Bologhine district with the basilica.

Notre-Dame d'Afrique: where is it located?

Notre-Dame d'Afrique is located in Algeria.

Notre-Dame d'Afrique: what is there to see?

Highlights include Théâtre de verdure désaffecté, Vista point, Notre Dame d'Afrique.

Notre-Dame d'Afrique: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

Notre-Dame d'Afrique: why is it worth visiting?

The Basilica of Notre-Dame d'Afrique is a prominent Roman Catholic church perched on a 124-meter-high cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Algiers.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Notre-Dame d'Afrique

Best time to visit & climate