DISCOVER ORAN
Welcome to Oran, One of the Most Captivating Destinations in the Mediterranean. Oran is a city where history, culture, modernity, and natural beauty blend harmoniously, offering a mesmerizing atmosphere that combines a rich cultural and architectural heritage where tradition meets modernity.
El-Bāhia Wahrān
Oran وهران
Oran (in Arabic: وهران (Wahrān), locally pronounced [wɑhren], in Berber: ⵡⴰⵀⵔⴻⵏ (Wahren)), nicknamed "The Radiant" (in Arabic: الباهية, El-Bāhia), is the second-largest city in Algeria and one of the most significant cities in the Maghreb region. It is a Mediterranean port city, located in Nortwestern Algeria, 432 km from the capital, Algiers. Oran is also the capital of the province bearing the same name, situated along the Gulf of Oran. The city lies at the heart of a bay open to the north and is directly overlooked to the west by Mount Aïdour (or Murdjajo), which rises to 420 meters, as well as the Moulay Abdelkader al-Jilani plateau. The urban area extends on both sides of the Oued Rhi ravine, which is now covered
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A PRIVILEGED AND IDEAL DESTINATION
Oran, the Mediterranean Jewel
Oran, the jewel of the Mediterranean, with its sun-kissed shores, captivates visitors with its historical monuments, such as the majestic Santa Cruz Fortress, which offers a breath-taking view of the bay, and the Great Mosque, a testament to the city's rich heritage
Proud of its Andalusian roots, Oran is also the birthplace of Raï music, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the local cultural rhythm. Every corner of the city tells a story, from its architecture and picturesque streets to its vibrant markets.
The surroundings of Oran offer numerous opportunities, including hiking, discovering traditional villages, and exploring the mountainous region of the Atlas. Not to mention its delicious cuisine, influenced by both Mediterranean and Oriental flavors.
Oran enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers, with a subtropical influence that gives it a unique charm. Located on Algeria’s North-western coast, the city benefits from abundant sunshine throughout the year, making Oran an ideal destination for those seeking bright and sunny days.
The city of Oran takes pride in its cultural, industrial, and educational heritage
Oran, a city with a rapidly growing population, is at the heart of an urban area with over 1,900,000 inhabitants. As the capital of western Algeria and an economic hub, Oran has distinguished itself through the development of its twinning network
Oran, crossroads of civilizations
Thanks to its multi-millennial history and its multiple influences, Oran remains a place of convergence of civilizations.
Throughout the ages, Oran has preserved its identity while integrating external contributions. This harmony between tradition and modernity makes the city a unique place where history is told through its alleys, monuments and neighborhoods.
Oran, a City at the Crossroads of Civilizations
Oran, is the second largest city in Algeria and one of the oldest cities in the country. It has a rich history marked by multiple influences and events that have shaped its identity. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it has always been a crossroads between civilizations.
The Spanish Conquest (1509)
In 1509 , the Spanish founded the city of Oran under the name "Oran" due to its strategic and commercial importance. The city quickly became an important military stronghold as part of Spain's dominance over the region. For nearly three centuries, Oran remained under Spanish control, leaving a lasting impact on its architecture and fortifications, including the famous Fort Santa Cruz.
The Ottoman Period (1708-1830)
Under Ottoman rule in the early 18th century, the city developed its infrastructure and became a strategic commercial seaport in the Mediterranean.
The French Colonization (1831)
In 1831, after several unsuccessful attempts, Oran was finally taken by French troops, marking the beginning of its colonization. This period was also marked by strong tensions and uprisings against colonial domination, culminating in the Algerian War of Independence.
Oran Post-Independence and Modern Transformations (1962- today)
Oran played a key role in the decolonization process, and after Algerian independence in 1962, it became one of the country's main cities. It has modernized while preserving its historical heritage. Today, Oran is an important economic and cultural center, known for its vibrant artistic life, especially Raï music, which has its roots in the city.
