5 Tourist Attractions in Tlemcen, a Town Near the Northwestern Border of Algeria

Tlemcen, located in northwestern Algeria near the border with Morocco, is a town that has long prospered as a key point of trade. From the 13th to the 16th centuries, it served as the capital of the Zayyanid dynasty, a Berber Islamic kingdom, and still retains many historical structures to this day. Its reputation as a key tourist destination in Algeria is also due to its textiles and handicrafts, its fusion of cultures, and its cool climate nestled in the mountains.
Unusually for Algeria, Tlemcen boasts many Moorish-style buildings—a blend of European and Islamic cultures—comparable to cities in Morocco or Andalusia in Spain. There are plenty of sightseeing highlights to explore in Tlemcen. Let us introduce some of the town’s most representative tourist attractions.

1. Great Mosque

The symbol of Tlemcen and a must-see tourist spot is the Great Mosque, located in the center of the town. This mosque is considered one of the most important Islamic architectural structures in North Africa and is said to be the oldest and best-preserved Almoravid architecture in Algeria.
The Almoravid dynasty was a Berber dynasty that flourished before the Zayyanid dynasty and, at its height, expanded its territory as far as the Iberian Peninsula, where present-day Spain is located. The Great Mosque, which retains the style of the Almoravid era, is also a monument to Algeria's rich history.

2. Tlemcen Museum

Tlemcen Museum, attached to a madrasa (Islamic higher education institution), exhibits various items such as handicrafts, textiles, and oil paintings. It is the perfect tourist spot to learn about the history and culture of Tlemcen and Algeria. Not only tourists, but also many visitors from local schools in Tlemcen come to see the exhibits.
Previously, many of the museum’s collections were housed in mosques within the city. When the madrasa was built in 1905, the items were moved to the school grounds, forming what is now the Tlemcen Museum.

3. Souk Kissaria

When strolling through Tlemcen, be sure to peek into the souks (markets). These vibrant markets offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of locals. While it may be a slightly advanced spot for tourists, visiting a foreign market can become a memorable part of your trip to Tlemcen.
There are several souks in Tlemcen, but the most popular among tourists is Souk Kissaria. With shops lined up like a maze, it is incredibly lively. Especially in the morning, you can really feel the bustling energy of the market. However, it is recommended to visit with a local tour guide or as part of a travel agency tour.

4. Lalla Setti Plateau

Lalla Setti Plateau is a scenic tourist destination offering panoramic views of the entire city of Tlemcen from an elevation of 1,000 meters.
A cable car runs from the city center of Tlemcen, operating along the edge of the cliff, reaching the top in about 15 minutes. You can sit and relax on the terrace at the cliff’s edge and enjoy the beautiful view of Tlemcen. The sunset view is especially romantic.
The plateau also features a museum, a mini amusement park, and more, making it a lively spot not only for tourists but also for locals from Tlemcen.

5. Palais El Mechouar

Located in the heart of Tlemcen, Palais El Mechouar is the remains of a castle said to have been built in the 12th or 13th century. It is believed to have been modeled after Spain’s Alhambra Palace and is a valuable cultural heritage site of Tlemcen, which the government spent three years restoring.
The highlight of this tourist spot is the beautiful palace courtyard! While retaining some of its original features, the stunning mosaics of the ancient walls and floors are a major draw. This is arguably the best place to feel the deep history of Tlemcen.

◎ Summary

We’ve carefully selected and introduced five tourist attractions in Tlemcen. Besides the Great Mosque, there are many more historical mosques throughout the city. As the former capital of a Berber dynasty, Tlemcen is still dotted with historical tourist spots. When visiting Algeria or Morocco, be sure to consider making a stop in Tlemcen.