Our walking tour of the Casbah ended in Algiers' busy outdoor market located in a wide street at its base. The market was packed with open stalls of fresh produce, breads, and household goods. Though we were tempted to sample offerings and visit the traditional dress shops along the street, it was 2pm and time for lunch!
Lunch provided a much needed rest break and fueled us to do a little shopping before leaving the center of town. (Photos from Riwaya Travel)
Our last stop of the day was at the Notre Dame D’Afrique. This Roman Catholic Basilica that sits on top of a cliff on the north side of Algiers. The inscription above the alter explains its importance to Algiers… Notre Dame d'Afrique priez pour nous et pour les Musulmans ("Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims").
From here, we were whisked back to the hotel to ready for a special night - a private party- with instructions to wear traditional clothing if we had it.
The party was held in the courtyard of an old ottoman home. Here a new start-up company catered our meal and provided live music - another indication the tourism industry is just beginning in Algeria.
Amel invited a special friend, Fatema, to join us. Fatema talked to us about an organization she started to help women victims of kidnappings by terrorists. With her was another woman who serves as the lawyer for the organization. They spoke of the many ways the organization supports the women and their children. After a traditional Algerian meal of a roast chicken and vegetable dish served on couscous, music played and we danced the night away!!