Citadel of Algiers (Dar Es Soltane)
قلعة الجزائر
A fortress and palace complex at the summit of the Casbah, the palace of the last Ottoman governor, with halls, a mosque and a gunpowder magazine, overlooking the old town and the bay.
The Citadel of Algiers sits at the highest point of the Casbah. Construction began in 1516. In 1817 the last governor, Hussein Pasha, moved the government here, and the site remained in use until the French captured it in 1830. The complex includes the governor’s palace, the bey’s palace, the Pasha Mosque, a gunpowder magazine and gardens, and forms the core of the Casbah World Heritage Site. It has been restored in phases over the years, and some areas are now open to visitors. From the walls you can overlook the layered old town and the harbor. You can take a taxi directly to the citadel and walk down from there to explore the Casbah. Opening hours vary, so check on site, and a guided visit is recommended.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–16:30 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Ketchaoua Mosque
- Dar Mustapha Pacha
- Casbah of Algiers
- Martyrs' Square
- Mausoleum of Sidi Abderrahmane
- Djamaa El Djedid
- Djamaa El Kebir
- Palais des Raïs (Bastion 23)