Mascara Province, Province in northern Algeria
Mascara is a province in northwestern Algeria with mountainous terrain and fertile plains spread across several administrative districts. The region combines highland areas with agricultural zones and functions as a significant regional center with the city of Mascara as its capital.
The province was created in 1974 following administrative reorganization after Algeria's independence, separating from the former Mostaganem and Oran territories. Since then it has developed as a distinct administrative area shaping regional governance and local administration.
The name comes from an Arabic word meaning difficult or harsh, referring to the region's challenging terrain. People maintain traditions through local markets and celebrations where you can find handmade goods, music, and regional specialties.
The province connects to major cities through regional roads, and the capital Mascara sits at 684 meters elevation. Visitors can access local services and facilities in the city, which serves as the administrative hub of the region.
A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck on August 18, 1994, and led to major changes in building codes and safety standards across the region. This seismic event shaped how infrastructure and urban planning evolved in the province afterward.
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