Visit Ghardaïa Province

Ghardaia Province is a mesmerizing region in the heart of Algeria, situated in the M'zab Valley. This oasis in the Sahara Desert is known for its unique, ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is home to five fortified cities, collectively a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which exemplify traditional community planning and living. Tourists often visit the city of Ghardaia, the capital of the province, to explore its bustling traditional markets and the grand, 11th-century Mozabite mosque. The city of Beni Isguen, known for its strict adherence to tradition, is another must-visit, offering a glimpse into a way of life untouched by time. An interesting historical fact about Ghardaia is that the cities were built by the Mozabites, a sect of the Ibadis, during the 11th century, making these cities a living testament to a civilization that has thrived in the desert for almost a millennium.