Traditions & Customs | Discover Algeria

Planning For Algeria – Finances and Visas

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Visiting Algeria is the trip of a lifetime, and with a little forward planning you can ensure you have a fantastic holiday. A one-month visa for Algeria costs around $40 to $50, and is payable on application for a visa. If you are a National of Israel, Taiwan or Malawi you may be denied a visa. In these cases, it’s advisable to apply for a visa in advance, before booking or planning your holiday. To apply, you’ll need three passport sized photographs, a letter from an employer stating the dates you are going on holiday, and an ‘invitation’ to Algeria. These are available from travel agencies. If you wish to apply while on your trip, this is also possible. From Niger, one-month visas cost $40, and are usually processed on the day of application. You will require three passport photographs, and to complete three application forms. You can also apply from Mali, which costs $36 and requires two photographs.

Algeria’s currency is called Dinars. One US dollar is equivalent to 74 dinars, or 7400 centimes. Large establishments may be able to accept credit cards, and tourist businesses may accept US dollars, but most companies will only accept dinars. The dinar is quite a weak currency, meaning you can enjoy the best of Algeria without the price tag you’d expect! If you are looking to spend a few months enjoying Algeria and the nearby areas, you may find it helpful to consult debt consolidation services, to reduce your debts and outgoings into one payment. This is much easier to manage while abroad, especially as Algeria has limited internet connectivity.

Once you’ve sorted your finances and your visa, all you’ve got to do is book a hotel and plan what you’d love to do. With everything from hostels to five star hotels, offering amazing mountain, desert, or sea views, there is definitely something for everyone!

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Touggourt is an Enchanting Algerian City

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Situated in the northeastern part of Algeria is the large city of Touggourt. It is located in the Wadi Igharghar Valley of Algeria and boasts population of approximately 300,000 citizens. It is considered to be one of the largest cities in the Sahara. Touggourt is built on an oasis, and as such, the city’s economy revolves around agriculture. Dates are one of the city’s largest export items. Cloth, carpets and vegetables also play an important part in Touggourt’s economy. Economic growth is healthy in this area due to its healthy livestock. While it is not the only city located in the Ouarglar region, it is perhaps one of the most profitable.

In its early history, Touggourt was circled by a moat. This moat was consequently filled b the French. The city was called the “sultanate of Tuggurt” referencing its sultanate dynasty that was founded in 1414. Before the dynasty was abolished by the French, it saw the reign of 14 sultans.

Currently the city’s architecture is mainly clay, stone or mud buildings. The streets wind through the city, many of them feature overhead covers to provide protection from the sun. While it has an old, traditional feel to it, the city is a quickly developing modern city.

Around the city, you will find very fertile lands that produce the dates for which the city is famous. Many tourists visit these date groves, but most want to visit the fortress mosque. The mosque contains the tombs of Beni Djellab kings. This mosque is a site of pilgrimages. Many visitors are amazed by the architectural grandeur of this mosque, especially the large dome where the tombs can be found.

While visiting Touggourt, one should definitely see these sites; however you should also discover the fascinating people who live in this city. They are very proud of their traditions and cultural heritage.

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Algeria’s Rich Culture and Society

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The culture and society of Algeria is soundly based in its recent history. Literature, arts and crafts, religion and music also play parts in the country’s rich culture. The primary language that is spoken in Algeria is Arabic -approximately 82 percent of the people speak this language. French is considered the country’s second language due to the history of French colonialism. On the other hand, English is spoken on a minimal basis. Interestingly, some Algerians also speak Berber dialects.

As is the case with many countries, the history of Algeria directly affects its culture. In addition, Algeria is home to many ethnic groups leading to a diverse culture. The primary and official religion of the country is Islam, with the majority of citizens being Muslims. Christianity is second and a small percentage (approximately one percent) are Jewish.

The literature of Algeria has included the works of many famous novelists including Assia Djebar, Mohammed Dib and Kateb Yacine. The written works of Assia Djebar have been translated into numerous languages.

Rai is the musical style that is best known on an international basis. It is a pop style based on folk music. The stars of Rai include Cheb Mami and Khaled. Stars like Dahman El Harrachi and El Hadj El Anka are famous for their Chaabi style of music. Andalusi music is a more traditional and classical style of music that originates from Morisco refugees. This style has been preserved in older coastal towns.

Handicrafts are also a large part of Algerian culture and are a thriving industry in the country. It is said that part of Algeria’s charm comes from these handicrafts. These crafts include ceramic and carpets, as well as lute making. Potter and glassworks, as well as silverworks are also extremely popular. Algeria crafts are sold to tourists as well as for export.

Filed Under: Algeria, Traditions & Customs Tagged With: Africa, Algeria, Cheb Mami, Islam

Algerian Relgious Sites

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In Algeria, Islam is considered to be the main religion. And due to this influence, most of this country’s religious sites have ties to Islam. Nearly every city and Town in Algeria has at least one mosque. The purpose of a mosque, primarily, is the core location for worship, but it is also the heart of the Islamic community in which it exists. These mosques also serve as community and educational centers.

Mosques have very recognizable and distinctive architectural form. These mosques have soaring spires, brilliantly shaped domed roofs and very intricate decoration. Due to the beauty and intricacy of these mosques, they usually stand out within other surrounding buildings. Because of the religious basis of this buildings, tourists are generally not allowed to tour the interior of mosques; but they still remain a very popular attraction for tourists to Algeria.

There are three mosques that are perhaps the most significant in Algeria — the Ketchaoua Mosque in Algiers, The Great Mosque of Tiemcen and the Great Mosque of Algiers. Other notable Algerian mosques include the Pasha Mosque in Oran, The Mosque of Constantine and the Al-Kawthar Mosque in Blida.

However, not every religious building is based in the Islamic religion. The Notre Dame d’Afrique is a Roman Catholic Church located in Algiers. This church was completed in 1872 and is located on a cliff that overlooks the bay. It currently serves as Algiers basilica. This church contains lavish mosaic patterns and religious iconography and pictures. An inscription on the wall behind the alter translate to Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and the Muslims.”

This reflects the complicated and rather lengthy Algerian history that saw religion playing a very crucial role. When visiting any of the numerous religious sites within the borders of Algeria, visitors will gain insight into this fascinating culture.

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Algerian Wedding Traditions and Customs

Like most Arab countries, the society of Algeria is centered around religion. In Algeria the main religion is Islam with the majority of citizen being Muslim. In Algeria the marriage custom is a very serious tradition. Algerians consider entering into a marriage is a sign of maturity. The marriage has to be based on love, according to the writings of the Islamic Qur’an. The wedding and marriage customs of Algeria are similar to those in other Muslim communities and countries.

While couples in Algeria are allowed to marry whom they wish, the union must be approved by the families. Parents in these families are considered to have the ability to help guide their children to an appropriate marriage partner. In a typical situation, the potential group will let his mother know of his intentions and love for a woman. His mother will then examine and look into the woman family to see if the family will be satisfactory. If the woman and her family receive the approval of the groom’s mother, the groom’s family will approach the woman’s family as a way of proposal. The engagement begins with a visit to the mosque.

In Algerian culture, it is believed that the more money that can the spent on the wedding, the prouder it will make the family. For many weeks prior to the nuptials, the women of the families will prepare desserts such as baklava. The meal at the wedding will consist of meat, vegetables and couscous.

Following the wedding party, the bride, wearing her bridal clothing and jewelry, is taken to the groom’s house, where she is placed in a decorated chair. The wedding party then takes part in dances to say goodbye. The groom then goes to his bride and they walk out of the house as wife and husband.

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Plant Life of Algeria

Flora and fauna play an important role in shaping a country’s ecosystem. Plants not only provide us with shade, they may bear food, house animals and provide their surrounding community with necessity. Here, we take a look at some of the plant-life growing in Algeria.

The Algerian Fir is endemic to Djebel Babor in Algeria. Djebel Babor is the second tallest mountain in the Tell Atlas mountain range. This medium-sized evergreen tree grows 20-35 meters tall and 1 meter in diameter. Its flattened needle-like leaves bear cones that start off a bluish-green hue with a violet tinge that mature into brown cones. Mature cones release their seeds back into the environment. This tree is drought tolerant and grows at an altitude of 1,800-2,004 meters. The Tell Atlas range is also home to the sturdy Atlas Cedar. This cedar grows mixed in with fir, juniper, Holm oak and maple trees. Such a forest is perfect for the Barbary Macaque.

The Gum Arabic Tree is useful in a variety of ways. Because of its thorns it may make a great protective hedge. Parts of the plant are sometimes used as medicine for ailments from a simple cough to dysentery, and even liver issues. Characteristic golden-yellow globular flowers are produced by the tree.

Most people may think that nothing can survive to grow in the desert. And while the Sahara spans over 8.6 million square kilometers, 200,000 of that distance is fertile. Water is not the only challenge for these plants to survive. Since the Sahara is so massive, its topography varies. Still, even in the world’s largest desert, there is plant-life. Most plants have complex root structures that plummet deep into the ground to water sources beneath. Succulents and cacti like the euphorbia are masters at water conservation. This makes them drought resistant. Small flowering annuals have a rapid cycle and lay dormant until the next rainfall. Their brilliant hued flowers assure quick pollination. Grasses, shrubs and small trees all posses a deep root system. There are even bulbs that live dormant underground until its time for them to bloom.

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Algerian Independence Day

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The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria is a nation rich in tradition. Divided into 48 provinces, Algeria struggled to secure its status as an independent nation. On July 5th, every year Algerians nationwide celebrate the anniversary of the birth of an Algeria standing on its own. Let’s shine a spotlight on Algeria’s day of independence and how it is celebrated by the people.

The capital of Algeria is Algiers. A 2009 estimate of the entire population of Algeria totaled 34.2 million citizens nationwide. Algeria is the largest country in North Africa. Each July, Algerians observe their country’s autonomy out from French rule. It was back on November 1, 1954 when Algerians decided to obtain their right to be a liberated society. On that date, a group called the National Liberation Front (FLN)sparked the Algerian War of Independence that lasted until 1964. Revolution Day, November 1st, is a time set aside to remember the beginning of this pivotal moment in the history of a liberated Algeria.

Food is always key at any family gathering to celebrate important holidays such as these. You may find delicious items such as stuffed lamb, salads made with potatoes and chickpeas, fresh fruit and dates or walnuts at a Algerian table. Independence day is a time celebrated with family and friendship. Observance of this day is done so with wholehearted ardor and sincere passion. A number of social events are organized to display multi-cultural functions which Algerians participate in. Many people are drawn to come witness these social events. These events are planned and prepared well in advance before the day of their performance arrives. During Independence day, the head of the nation gives a national address to share Algeria’s aspirations and achievements with the community. Independence Day and Revolution Day are central to Algerian society.

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Holidays in Algeria

A nations cultural uniqueness shows the world the beauty of their people. The creative expression of regional customs breathe a richness into a society that touches on what makes that country special. A nations customs are its heartbeat. Here’s a window into the heartbeat of Algerian culture.

Public Holidays
Algeria celebrates a variety of holidays each year. January 1st kicks off the list of public holidays with New Year’s Day. Mouloud is observed on a rotating day each February, as the birth of the prophet Muhammad. Drawn from the Arabic word meaning to give birth, Mouloud is celebrated in a festive manner. July 5th marks the anniversary of Algerian independence. Street celebrations can be seen with citizens dressed in green, the Algerian national color. The mood is festive and honored with intense passion. Music and cultural events are put together to help raise the yearly revelry. Additional holidays observed on a fixed day are Labor Day (May 1st)and the Anniversary of the Revolution on November 1st. Certain annual holidays are observed on a movable basis. These particular days correspond to the moon phases on the calender for that year.

Ramadan
Ramadan is an example of such a time. The month long prayer and fasting falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During Ramdan, participants practice patience, humility and spirituality by fasting from dawn until the sun sets. Ramadan moves each year with the phases of the moon. It’s a spiritual month of revelation, forgiveness and guidance. The holiday of Eid ul-Fitr signals the end of the fasting, falling on the first new moon of the following month. Eid ul-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast)holds a special celebration of feasting, charity, communal prayers and more.

Other holidays that shift with the moon phases are Islamic New Year, Ashoura and Eid ul-Adha.

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Tradition: Algerian Wedding

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Marriage is a committed union between two people. In Algeria this sacred union is taken seriously, as family is deeply interwoven into the society of the nation. Marriage is seen as a step of maturity in the life of Algerian citizens. It’s a family affair filled with giving and love. Here’s a quick look at a traditional Algerian wedding.

The Qur’an states that marriage should be based on love. Men and women are free to marry whomever they wish with the approval of the families involved. Parents have first-handed insight and experience where marriage is concerned. Their advice and guidance can be key to a couple about to embark on a new life together. When a man is interested in a woman, he often shares that knowledge with his mother. His mother then finds out more about the woman and her family. When all is agreeable, the man will visit the home of his prospective wife. He then asks the family for her hand in marriage. After she accepts, preparations begin with a date set to visit the mosque. Once the date is set, the engagement commences.

A shoura is collected by the families. It includes various household items, clothing, wool and gold. The shoura is given as a gift to help equip the couple on their new life together. Men and women have equal claim to the marriage. Getting to know each other well throughout the engagement is encouraged.

A grand meal offered at the wedding is often a direct reflection of a family’s generosity. Preparation of the wedding feast may begin weeks prior to the event. Many marriage rituals are passed down throughout the centuries, bringing a special sense of love and honor to the union. At times, traditional wedding dresses may be hand-crafted. The bride is adorned with henna and jewelry as she is cared for by the women in the family. The wedding is celebrated with food and music. Algerian weddings are a reflection of love and the spirit of giving.

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Flavors of Algerian Cuisine

This is one of the variations of Moroccan Cous...

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Nothing connects a community like the meals they share. Something about the familiar aroma of the food we grew up with can conjure up wonderful memories of our lives. In addition, many occasions in life are marked with the combination of celebration and food. A country’s food is its flavor. Algeria bursts with flavor. Here’s a sample of the culinary delights of Algeria.

What makes Algerian cuisine one-of-a-kind is a tasty blend of cultures. Touches of Morocco along with Turkish,French, Arabic and African influences lend a hand in the dishes of Algeria. Algeria is known for its fertile soil in the northern mountain region of the country. This gives the perfect environment for olive trees, figs, grapes and other plants to flourish.

Couscous is a wheat-based food that originated in Berber culture. Traditional preparation of couscous involves steaming and serving it under meat or vegetable stew. Many a mealtime is focused on a steaming dish of spicy couscous surrounded by slow-cooked meats such as lamb or chicken. Dates are also a household staple, eaten after meals, alongside fresh fruit. Couscous may often be prepared in the top layer of a bi-level dish called a couscousiere, with a stew contained in the bottom level of the pot.

A familiar breakfast dish in Algerian households is popular in other parts of North Africa as well. Chakchouka is made with fragrant ingredients such as garlic, paprika, onion and tomatoes, topped with an egg and served over rice, bread, or pita.

Known around the world, Merguez is a delicious spicy sausage made from lamb and/or beef. A touch of Algeria is added with spices such as sumac, cayenne pepper, and harisa. Harisa, a hot red chili paste is what gives this unique sausage its characteristic red hue. Merguez adds a kick to tagines (stews) as well as sandwiches. Mint tea and sweetened coffee are commonplace drinks. They are often offered to guests and enjoyed among good company. Delectable desserts like Makroudh and Asida have their place at the table as well. Algerian food offers the globe a unique taste of a unique nation.

Filed Under: Algeria, Traditions & Customs, Travel Tagged With: Chakchouka, Cuisine, cultures, Flavors of Algerian