Blida

About

Blida’s namesake is the Arabic diminutive for city (balad), but it’s aptly nicknamed “the city of roses” for the many rose-filled gardens scattered all throughout the city. Although the town in its present form was founded in the 16th century by Moors, various cultures have interspersed here throughout the region's long history, including Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Ottoman, and most recently, French. Its main water source from the Chiffa gorge provides power to various industries including corn mills and factories, but also feeds the city’s numerous fountains and irrigated gardens. As you wander the modern streets of this magnificent city, you’ll discover these sites aplenty and enjoy a mild, Mediterranean climate. There’s a lot to offer, including extravagant Ottoman mosques, several churches, and modern squares where visitors can delight in cafes, restaurants and pastry shops. For football fans, the Stade Mustapha Tchaker, the home stadium of the Algeria national football team, is worth a visit.