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Ketchaoua Mosque

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Ketchaoua Mosque is a historic religious site located at the base of the Casbah of Algiers, dating back to its original construction in 1612. The mosque is famous for its unique blend of Moorish and Byzantine architectural styles, a result of its complex history. In 1845, during the French colonial era, it was converted into the Cathedral of Saint Philippe, undergoing significant structural changes that introduced grand Neo-Byzantine elements. Following Algeria's independence in 1962, the building was restored to its original function as a mosque, serving as a powerful symbol of national reclamation. The exterior is marked by a monumental staircase and two towering minarets that flank the main entrance. Inside, the prayer hall features exquisite marble columns and a dome that showcases master craftsmanship from both the Ottoman and colonial periods. As a key component of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Casbah, the mosque remains an essential landmark for understanding the intertwined histories of religion and sovereignty in Algiers.

Location: Algeria
Top sights: La Pêcherie · The archaeological excavation site of the remains of the "El Sayyida Mosque" · Dar Es-Souff
Nearby: Burj Al Kifan (12 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

The mosque is an active place of worship and is open to visitors outside prayer times. Modest dress is required; non-Muslims may enter the main prayer hall only during designated visiting hours.

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Typical hours

Visiting hours are typically limited to between prayer times, often in the late morning and afternoon. The exact schedule depends on daily prayer times, so it's best to ask at the mosque or check with a local guide.

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Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the mosque, but flash and tripods may be prohibited during prayers. Always photograph respectfully and avoid capturing worshippers without permission.

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Time needed

A visit to the mosque usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to see the interior and appreciate the architecture. If you also explore the surrounding Casbah quarter, allow at least two hours in total.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site just steps away. The nearby Martyrs' Memorial (Maqam Echahid) is also a worthwhile stop to understand Algeria's modern history.

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Getting there

The mosque is located in the lower Casbah, easily reached by taxi from central Algiers or by a short walk from the Place des Martyrs. You can also take a cable car from the city center for a scenic approach.

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Insider tip

Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and larger crowds, and to enjoy a quieter experience. Consider hiring a local guide for the Casbah to navigate the narrow alleys and learn more about the area's history.

Geography

Coordinates

36.78500, 3.06170

Facts

First established as a mosque in 1612
Served as the Cathedral of St. Philippe for over a century
Architectural style is a mix of Moorish and Byzantine
Features two prominent minarets added in the 19th century
The first Friday prayer after independence was held here in 1962
Listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Casbah

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dar Hassan Pacha<1 km · SExplore →

Notre-Dame d'Afrique2 km · NWExplore →

Algiers3 km · SExplore →

Martyrs' Memorial5 km · SExplore →

Great Mosque of Algiers9 km · SEExplore →

Lighthouse of Cap Caxine10 km · WExplore →

Hamma Botanical Garden11 km · SWExplore →

Algiers Opera House12 km · SWExplore →

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 Ketchaoua Mosque (6)

La Pêcherie 🏺 historical

La Pêcherie is a historic monument located in the traditional fishing port area just below the storied Casbah district.

The archaeological excavation site of the remains of the "El Sayyida Mosque"📍 landmark

This archaeological excavation site preserves the foundational stone remains of the historic El Sayyida Mosque.

Dar Es-Souff 🏛 museum

Dar Es-Souff is a museum housed in an elegantly restored Ottoman-era palace that exhibits profound local architectural details.

Cultural and Arts Center Rais El Bahr Bastion 23 🎭 culture

Bastion 23 operates as a spirited cultural and arts center set within a deeply fortified coastal Ottoman defensive structure.

🌐 bloom-communication.dz

National Maritime Museum 🏛 museum

The National Maritime Museum displays a vast collection of historic ship models and nautical artifacts tracing the region's Mediterranean seafaring heritage.

Ex-Palais du Oukil El Hardj🏰 castle

The Ex-Palais du Oukil El Hardj is a resilient former administrative fortress that once served as the naval quartermaster's base during the Ottoman era.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Ketchaoua Mosque located?

It is located at the foot of the Casbah of Algiers, near Place des Martyrs.

Was this building ever a church?

Yes, during the colonial era, it served as St. Philip's Cathedral.

Can tourists enter the mosque?

Yes, outside of prayer times, visiting is often possible.

Are there special architectural features?

It uniquely mixes Byzantine and Moorish architectural styles.

Is entry free for visitors?

Yes, entry is generally free.

Ketchaoua Mosque: where is it located?

Ketchaoua Mosque is located in Algeria.

Ketchaoua Mosque: what is there to see?

Highlights include La Pêcherie, The archaeological excavation site of the remains of the "El Sayyida Mosque", Dar Es-Souff.

Ketchaoua Mosque: when is the best time to visit?

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

Ketchaoua Mosque: why is it worth visiting?

The Ketchaoua Mosque is a historic religious site located at the base of the Casbah of Algiers, dating back to its original construction in 1612.

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Ketchaoua Mosque

Best time to visit & climate