Important places related to the history of medicine and other health-related subjects in Blida and its Province, Algeria.
Blida: The City of Roses and Natural Splendor in Algeria
Nestled at the foothills of the Tell Atlas Mountains in northern Algeria, approximately 50 kilometers southwest of the capital Algiers, Blida (locally pronounced *Blida*) is the capital of Blida Province. Known as the “City of Roses” for its lush gardens and fragrant blooms, Blida lies in the fertile Mitidja Plain, a region celebrated for its agricultural abundance. Founded in the 16th century by Andalusian refugees fleeing the Reconquista, the city harmoniously blends Berber, Arab, Ottoman, and French colonial influences. Its strategic location—shielded by the imposing Chréa Mountain (Jebel El Chréa), part of the Atlas range—grants it natural protection from desert winds while offering breathtaking vistas of orchards, citrus groves, and rose fields. The Chréa National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, dominates the landscape, providing winter skiing opportunities and summer hiking trails.
Blida’s economy thrives on agriculture, particularly oranges, whose blossoms are distilled into prized orange flower water (*ma zhar*), and roses, used in perfumes and traditional crafts. The city’s bustling markets, like Souk El Khemis, overflow with local delicacies such as *hamama* (herb-infused couscous) and rosewater-based pastries. Artisanal traditions, including intricate embroidery and pottery, reflect its Andalusian heritage. Architecturally, Blida juxtaposes Ottoman-era mosques, such as the 16th-century Great Mosque (El Atik), with French colonial buildings like the transformed Church of Saint-Charles Borromée, now the Koussir Mosque. The city also bears historical scars: it was a hub of resistance during the Algerian War, producing revolutionaries like Mohamed Boudiaf and Ali Laïmèche.
Culturally, Blida is a sensory feast. Its streets are lined with jasmine-draped walls and orange trees, while annual festivals like the *Rose Festival* celebrate its floral legacy. The nearby Roman ruins of Tiklat and Ottoman-era mausoleums add layers of historical intrigue. Despite modernization, Blida retains its provincial charm, offering a gateway to the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara beyond. With its vibrant mix of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness, Blida stands as a testament to Algeria’s enduring allure.
These places are also visible on this Google Map.