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Notre-Dame d'Afrique

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Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)

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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.

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Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141315161922252624221815
Rain mm846760533911512396410785

📋 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 DeyPalace of the Dey2 km · SEExplore →
Port of AlgiersPort of Algiers3 km · SEExplore →
AlgiersAlgiers5 km · SExplore →
Martyrs' MemorialMartyrs' Memorial7 km · SEExplore →
Lighthouse of Cap CaxineLighthouse of Cap Caxine8 km · WExplore →
Algiers Opera HouseAlgiers Opera House11 km · SWExplore →
Great Mosque of AlgiersGreat Mosque of Algiers11 km · SEExplore →
Hamma Botanical GardenHamma Botanical Garden12 km · SExplore →

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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.

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.
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Nearby cities

Algiers — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Algiers
Algiers is the capital and largest city of Algeria, located on the Mediterranean coast.

History & landmarks

Palais des Raïs — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Palais des Raïs
Bastion 23 or Palais des Raïs is one of the last surviving palaces from the Ottoman period in Algiers.
Casbah of Algiers — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Casbah of Algiers
The historic Casbah of Algiers is a winding citadel with old mosques, Ottoman palaces, and traditional houses.
Ketchaoua Mosque — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Ketchaoua Mosque
The Ketchaoua Mosque in Algiers is a significant historical building at the foot of the Casbah.
Dar Hassan Pacha — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Dar Hassan Pacha
Dar Hassan Pacha is a historic palace in the Casbah of Algiers characterized by a blend of Moorish and Neo-Gothic architectural styles.
Grand Post Office of Algiers — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Grand Post Office of Algiers
The Grand Post Office of Algiers is an impressive Neo-Moorish building constructed in 1910.
Martyrs' Memorial — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Martyrs' Memorial
The Martyrs' Memorial is an iconic concrete monument in Algiers commemorating the Algerian War of Independence.
Lighthouse of Cap Caxine — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Lighthouse of Cap Caxine
This historic lighthouse west of Algiers is a prominent navigation mark.
Algiers Opera House — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Algiers Opera House
The Algiers Opera House is a modern architectural jewel built as a gift from China to Algeria.

More places

Palace of the Dey — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Palace of the Dey
The former seat of the Ottoman rulers of Algiers, which played an important role in the country's diplomatic history.
Port of Algiers — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Port of Algiers
The largest seaport in Algeria, a crucial hub for international trade and freight traffic.
Hamma Botanical Garden — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Hamma Botanical Garden
A green park in Algiers, ideal for families and children.
Algiers Refinery — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Algiers Refinery
One of the oldest and most important refineries in the country, supplying the capital and the central region.
Aquafortland — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Aquafortland
A popular water park for kids in Algiers.
Rouiba Industrial Zone — Notre-Dame d'Afrique (Algeria)
Rouiba Industrial Zone
The largest industrial zone in Algeria, home to many factories including SNVI vehicle production.