Overview:

The Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, or Notre Dame d'Afrique, is a Catholic basilica located in Algiers, Algeria. It is the major Marian shrine located in Africa. The basilica was built in 1872 by Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, the Archbishop of Algiers and the founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, in imitation of the Sacré-Cœur in Paris. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the Bay of Algiers, and offers a stunning view of the bay. The shrine consists of a neoclassical church in which visitors can pray to the Virgin Mary. It also houses the National Museum of Ancient Religions. The basilica is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, and many Algerians still flock to it for prayers and petitions. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Algeria
Prominent Features:

The Basilica of Our Lady of Africa is one of the largest and most important Catholic churches in Africa. Located in Algiers, Algeria, it was built in 1930 to commemorate the centennial of the French colonization of Algeria. The church is named after the iconic Virgin Mary, whose statue is enshrined in the basilica. The highly visible structure sits prominently atop a hill overlooking the city. The basilica is distinct from the rest of Algiers for its large, white marble façade with two bell towers and huge dome. The basilica houses an assortment of Moroccan-style artifacts and artwork, which lend an eye-catching uniqueness to the church. From its garden, visitors have a magnificent view of the city—an ideal spot for photography and contemplation. The basilica is an important religious symbol to the country’s Catholics, but has also become a cultural hub for Algerians of all faiths, providing a peaceful gathering space where people of different backgrounds can come together in fellowship. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Algeria.

History:

The Basilica of Our Lady of Africa (French: Notre-Dame d'Afrique) is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Algiers, Algeria, consecrated in 1872. It is the largest church in the city and a known landmark. The Marian sanctuary was built on the site of an old Ottoman palace. The French architect Charles Sicard was commissioned to direct the construction of the church in 1858. It was built in the Byzantine-Romanesque style, using materials such as white marble, dark red brick, and cut stones. Sicard’s design incorporated Moorish decorative elements into the mix. In 1872, the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa was dedicated by Bishop Charles Lavigerie, who was Archbishop of Algiers at the time. He placed a statue of Our Lady of Africa inside the church, which quickly became a symbol of unity among the people. When the French captured Algiers in 1830, the basilica was used by the French colonial government as a garrison. The interior décor was changed during this period, with mosaics being installed along the walls and paintings of Jesus and other religious figures. The basilica also became a place of political meetings for Algerian nationalists. The Algerian War of Independence began in 1954, and the basilica was damaged in a bombing attack the following year. After Algeria won its independence in 1962, the basilica was restored and continues to be a place of worship for Christians and Muslims alike. Visit one of the famous monuments of Algeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Basilica of Our Lady of Africa is the largest Roman Catholic church in North Africa. 2. It was consecrated in 1930 by Bishop Amigo, making it the oldest Roman Catholic church in Algiers. 3. The church was built in the early twentieth century and features two Gothic towers and a dome which rises 82 feet. 4. The church is an example of neo-Byzantine architecture and is famous for its intricate mosaics that were created by French artist Gustav-Adolphe Mossa. 5. The church is a popular pilgrimage site, and many people come to pray for healing, strength, and faith. 6. The first mass in the church was celebrated for the feast of the Assumption in 1934. 7. The church also houses several chapels dedicated to different saints and important figures of the Catholic faith. 8. The church is also the largest religious building in the Maghreb and acts as a symbol of religious unity for the Algerian people. One of the historical monuments of Algeria, it tells the story of a bygone era