The Martyrs Memorial, known locally as Maqam Echahid, stands on the hills above Algiers and rises 92 metres over the city. It was built to honour those who died in the Algerian War of Independence and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the capital. Three concrete palm leaves rise from a round base, and a flame burns at the centre. From the esplanade you can see much of Algiers and the coast, and a museum sits underneath the monument. Plan a daytime visit, or come near sunset for a different view of the city.
Built after independence
The memorial was built in the 1980s near the Hamma Botanical Garden to commemorate the Algerian war that led the country to independence in 1962. It was inaugurated in 1982, on the 20th anniversary of independence, and it honours the people who were killed in the struggle against French colonial rule, particularly between the 1950s and the 1960s.
The memorial was designed by the Polish sculptor Marian Konieczny, and it follows an idea by the painter Bachir Yelles.
The design
The monument rises 92 metres on the hills overlooking Algiers, so it can be seen from many parts of the city. Three palm leaves stand together, a symbol of unity, and they rise from a circular base that represents the country. An eternal flame sits at the centre.
The concrete forms are large enough that the shape reads clearly from the esplanade, and it is worth walking around the base to see how the leaves meet above you.
The museum and the esplanade
A museum is located underneath the memorial, the Mudjahid Museum, and it is the place to learn the detail of the war. Getting tickets in advance is recommended.
The surrounding open space is a good place to walk. A large area with cafes and shops gives some of the best views of the memorial itself. Not every part of the site is open to walk through, so expect to see some areas only from a distance. The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Getting there and nearby
Parking is paid, both in the parking lot and on the street. A cable car station sits below the memorial, and it is not clearly signposted from the monument, so check the route before you go if you want to use it.
The Kasbah, the old town of Algiers, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding streets and is a short trip away. Many visitors combine the two.
FAQ
Is parking available at the Martyrs Memorial?
Yes, but it is paid. There is a paid parking lot and paid street parking nearby.
Is the Martyrs Memorial suitable for children?
Yes. The open grounds suit families, and children are often fascinated by the size of the structure.
Can I take photos inside the museum?
No. Photography is not allowed inside the museum under the memorial, so take photos on the esplanade and the grounds.
How tall is the Martyrs Memorial?
The monument stands 92 metres tall on the hills above Algiers.
