. Libraries
Libraries in Algeria during the Ottoman era can be divided into public and private. It is noted that there were almost no royal or princely libraries in Algeria, as public libraries were those attached to schools, mosques, and religious schools. These libraries were primarily open to students and then to all Muslim readers.
As for the private libraries, they are numerous and not exclusive, but some families became renowned for their long-standing influence in the realm of libraries. For instance, the Fekoun family in Constantine had a massive private library that became a reference point after the French occupation, known as Hamouda Fekoun. Additionally, Wartelani mentioned that his father had a great collection of books.
02. Mosques
Statistics regarding the number of mosques in Algeria during the Ottoman era vary. Defoe reported in the African Magazine that the number of mosques in Algiers reached 100, including 7 main ones. By the year 1830, the number reached 176 institutions, including 13 large mosques, 109 mosques, 32 mausoleums, and 12 zawiyas.
*The zawiyas/
One of the most notable features of the Ottoman era in Algeria was the spread of Sufism and the abundance of zawiyas.
In Algiers, we find the Zawiya and shrine of Abdel Rahman Thaalbi, the Zawiya of Abdul Qadir al-Jilani, the Zawiya of Sidi Mohammed Sharif...
03. The theater:
Known for its Karagöz theaters that offer entertainment and amusement to the people, in addition to poetic recitation sessions...