Rais Palace, Ottoman palace and museum in Casbah of Algiers, Algeria
Rais Palace comprises four interconnected palaces and several houses along the Casbah waterfront in Algiers, now functioning as an arts and cultural center. The complex features multiple interior courtyards and gardens connecting the various structures across a substantial area.
Construction of the palace began in 1576 under Ramdan and Mustafa Pasha as residences for maritime commanders during Algeria's Ottoman period. The structure survived the French colonial era and was later transformed into a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events.
The palace displays Ottoman architectural features including painted tiles, carved woodwork, and marble inlays throughout its rooms and corridors. These decorative techniques reflect the tastes of the wealthy inhabitants who lived here during the period of Ottoman rule.
The palace is located on Boulevard Amara Rachid and is reached by walking through the narrow streets of the Casbah, with the neighborhood being busier at certain times of day. It helps to allow extra time for exploring, as the structure with its connected courtyards and passages is laid out in a complex way.
The building contains underground connecting passages called sabbat, specifically designed for safe movement between houses. These hidden corridors survived the French colonial period when many other structures in the quarter were demolished.
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