Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, Ottoman palace museum in Casbah, Algeria
The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions displays handcrafted objects and domestic items within a 16th-century palace set in the heart of the Casbah. The exhibition includes rugs, jewelry, pottery, clothing, and copper vessels that show how people lived in earlier times.
The palace was originally built in the 16th century as a residence and served members of the ruling family for centuries. After French colonization in 1830, the building was repurposed as the city's first administrative center.
The name reflects everyday craftsmanship traditions that Algerians have practiced for generations, visible throughout the palace rooms. You can see how local artisans continue these techniques today, from weaving to metalwork.
The museum opens in the early afternoon on most days of the week and closes on certain days for maintenance or special events. It's helpful to check ahead since hours can change, especially during holidays or cultural celebrations.
The palace holds a collection of roughly 20,000 photographs documenting scenes of daily life and local customs across different time periods. These images in various formats capture Algiers and its people as they changed throughout the 20th century.
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