Algeria’s mosques are interesting, different styles reflect upon Algeria’s national history. The one that all seem to get a chance to visit is not only conveniently located next to the harbour, it is also quite unique. Djemaa el-Djedid, means New Mosque, but this Ottoman mosque dates back to 1660. It combines Turkish styles of vaults and domes with an Andalucian minaret, but most noteworthy is the shape of its ground, with the form of a cross; nobody knows why. One popular story tells that its architect was a Christian, who was punished for just this by death.
