The mosque was converted into the Cathedral of Saint Philippe in 1832 following the French conquest of Algiers.
The original 1612 mosque was expanded significantly in 1794 under the reign of Hassan Pasha.
The site was historically the primary religious center for the Casbah district during the Ottoman era.
It was returned to the Muslim community as a mosque immediately upon Algeria's independence in 1962.
The architecture is notable for its deliberate fusion of Islamic North African styles with European neo-Byzantine features.
The Ketchaoua Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage site located within the Casbah of Algiers, originally constructed in 1612 during the Ottoman period. The structure reflects a hybrid architectural style, incorporating both Byzantine and Moorish elements following its 18th-century expansion. It served as a cathedral during French colonial rule before being converted back into a mosque in 1962. The facade features two prominent minarets and a broad staircase leading to an entrance influenced by neo-Byzantine design. The interior retains intricate marble columns and complex tile work characteristic of Maghrebi craftsmanship. Recent restoration efforts have stabilized the masonry and preserved the historic integrity of its dual-style architecture.
From the bottom of the front staircase looking up at the two symmetrical minarets against the sky.
Explore the surrounding labyrinthine alleys of the Casbah after your visit.
Maintain a respectful distance if prayers are in progress.
Carry a headscarf if you are a woman, as it is required for entry.
Avoid taking photographs of individuals praying or close-ups of worshippers without explicit permission.
May be closed to tourists during daily prayer times and Friday midday communal prayers.
Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall. Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is mandatory for all visitors.
