The UNESCO Sites in Algeria have recognized 7 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Algeria and 6 locations on the Algeria UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Algeria are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 7 sites in the Algeria UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Algeria are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Algeria tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Algeria.
Algeria UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Algeria
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Algeria
There are 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Algeria. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad
- Djémila
- Kasbah of Algiers
- M’Zab Valley
- Timgad
- Tipasa
- Tassili n’Ajjer
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Algeria are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad
The Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad is Algeria’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the ruins of a fortified city built in the 11th century by the Hammadid dynasty and was once an important political and cultural center in the region. The site features the remains of several palaces, mosques, and other structures that showcase the era’s unique architectural and artistic styles. Despite being abandoned and destroyed mainly in the 13th century, the Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad remains a fascinating example of medieval Islamic architecture and is a must-see destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
Djémila
Djémila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Algeria. The Romans established the ancient city in the first century AD and is a remarkable example of Roman urban planning and architecture. The site features well-preserved structures, including a forum, temples, basilicas, triumphal arches, and houses with intricate mosaics. Djémila also showcases a unique blend of Roman and North African cultural influences. The site is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient engineering and a reminder of the intercultural exchanges that have occurred throughout history.
Kasbah of Algiers
The Kasbah of Algiers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Algiers, the capital city of Algeria. The Kasbah is a historic citadel that served as the political and cultural center of the city for centuries. The site features a unique blend of Ottoman, Andalusian, and Mediterranean architectural styles, which reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Algiers over time. The Kasbah is home to several important landmarks, including the Palace of the Day, the Ketchaoua Mosque, and the Dar Hassan Pacha, all of which are remarkable examples of Islamic architecture. Despite its historical significance, the Kasbah faces a number of challenges related to urbanization and neglect, making its preservation an ongoing concern.
M’Zab Valley
M’Zab Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northern Sahara desert of Algeria. It is home to five traditional fortified cities, known as ksour, built in the 10th century by the Ibadites, a Muslim sect. The cities were designed to be self-sufficient and sustainable, and their unique architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The inhabitants of M’Zab Valley have preserved their traditional way of life, which includes farming and crafts, for over a thousand years. The site is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of human beings in adapting to challenging environments.
Timgad
Timgad is an ancient Roman city in the North African country of Algeria, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was founded in the first century AD by Emperor Trajan. It was designed in a grid pattern, with impressive public buildings, temples, and houses arranged around a central forum. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Timgad, including its triumphal arch, theater, and library, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and architectural achievements of the Roman Empire in North Africa.
Tipasa
Tipasa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Algeria. The ancient city was once an essential Phoenician trading post and later became a Roman colony. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Tipasa’s amphitheater, basilica, and forum, among other structures. The site also features a museum that displays artifacts from the city’s history, including Roman mosaics and Phoenician pottery. With its blend of Phoenician, Roman, and early Christian influences, Tipasa is a fascinating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Tassili n’Ajjer
Tassili n’Ajjer is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Algerian section of the Sahara Desert. It is an expansive plateau characterized by a breathtaking landscape of towering sandstone formations, deep canyons, and prehistoric cave paintings estimated to be up to 12,000 years old. These paintings offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the area’s ancient inhabitants, including depictions of animals, hunting scenes, and religious rituals. Tassili n’Ajjer is a remarkable natural wonder and a vital link to the prehistoric past, making it a truly unique and essential destination for those interested in history and culture.
Algeria UNESCO tentative list
- Les oasis à foggaras et les ksour du Grand Erg Occidental
- Sites, lieux et itinéraires augustiniens du Maghreb central
- Nedroma et les Trara
- Oued souf
- Les Mausolées Royaux de Numidie, de la Maurétanie et les monuments funéraires pré-islamiques
- Parc des Aurès avec les établissements oasiens des gorges du Rhoufi et d’El Kantara
Tours in Algeria
Our choices of tours in Algeria are divided into thematic features such as Tipasa, Timgad, and M’Zab Valley Experience.