University of Oum El Bouaghi

Department of architecture

History of Architecture in Algeria 1 (19th and 20th Centuries).

Course 7:The neo-Moorish style

Doctor NAIDJA Amina

2023/2024
Introduction:

The neo-Moorish style emerged in the late 19th century, mostly in places where Islamic architecture left a mark.
The neo-Moorish style, also known as Moorish or Islamic architecture, took inspiration from traditional
Moorish art in medieval Spain and North Africa, especially Andalusia. In Algeria, it became popular during the
French colonial era, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. it played a big role during French colonial times
and still influences modern architecture. Here's a rundown on the neo-Moorish style in Algeria:

The principles features of the neo moorish style in algeria

The Neo-Moorish style in Algeria is characterized by a set of distinct principles and features that reflect its unique blend
of Moorish, Islamic, and North African influences. Here are the key principles and features of the Neo-Moorish style in
Algeria:

1-Use of Ceramic: The facades of Neo-Moorish buildings are often adorned with colorful ceramic tiles, forming geometric
patterns and arabesques. These tiles are often arranged to create complex and elegant motifs.

2-Horseshoe Arches: Horseshoe arches are one of the most iconic features of the Neo-Moorish style. These arches are
often found in doors, windows, and passageways, creating a distinctive aesthetic.
Geometric Patterns:

Intricate geometric patterns, often based on traditional Islamic designs, adorn various elements of Neo-Moorish
buildings. These patterns can be found in tiles, stucco work, and other decorative elements, contributing to a visually rich
and harmonious aesthetic.

Ceramic Tilework (Zellige):

The extensive use of ceramic tiles, known as zellige, is a characteristic feature. Colorful and intricately patterned tiles
are applied to facades, floors, and walls, creating a vibrant and detailed visual impact.

Calligraphy:

Arabic calligraphy, featuring verses from the Quran or other decorative scripts, is commonly incorporated into the
design. Calligraphic elements add a layer of cultural and symbolic significance to the architecture.

Courtyards and Patios:

Traditional North African and Moorish architecture often includes inner courtyards or patios. In the Neo-Moorish style,
these spaces are adorned with fountains, greenery, and architectural details, providing a sense of calm and natural light.
Stucco and Plasterwork:
Elaborate stucco and plasterwork, depicting floral motifs and intricate detailing, contribute to the overall ornate appearance
of Neo-Moorish buildings. These elements can be found on walls, ceilings, and arches.
Domes and Minarets:
Some Neo-Moorish structures feature domes and minarets, reminiscent of traditional Islamic architecture. While not as
prevalent as in traditional mosques, these elements add height and visual interest to the buildings.
Mosaics:
Mosaic work, often depicting complex patterns or even figurative designs, is employed to enhance the decorative quality of
Neo-Moorish interiors and exteriors.
Integration with Local Environment:
The Neo-Moorish style in Algeria often incorporates elements that resonate with the local environment and climate, adapting
traditional features to suit contemporary needs.
Continued Artistic Tradition:
The style contributes to the preservation and continuation of traditional artistic craftsmanship, encouraging the use of
skilled artisans in ceramics, calligraphy, and other crafts.

The Neo-Moorish style in Algeria, with its rich historical and cultural references, continues to be a significant part of the
country's architectural identity, symbolizing a fusion of diverse influences and a connection to the region's heritage.
Examples of neo moorish buildings in algeria

1-La Grande Poste d'Alger (The Grand Post Office of Algiers):

It is a monument dedicated to the PTT (French postal and telecommunication services) designed by architects Jules Voinot
and Marius Toudoir, built in 1910-1913 in the neo-Moorish style with the governor of Algiers, Charles Célestin Jonnart.
The Grand Post Office of Algiers is located in the heart of Algiers. It is the main tourist landmark in the city center, known
as Alger Centre. It features horseshoe arches, intricate tilework, and decorative elements inspired by Islamic architecture.
History:
To enable the construction of the Grand Post Office on Laferrière Boulevard (currently Khemisti), it was necessary to
demolish the old Anglican chapel built in 1870, which had been established for the benefit of an English community that
had settled in Algiers.

The Anglican The landscape with the The landscape

chapel big post office without the big post
who will disappear
office
Source: alger-roi.fr
Interior Plans:
Symmetrical plan on both sides of several axes featuring certain secondary protrusions.

Ground floor plan 1st Floor Plan

Source:fr.slideshare.net Source: fr.slideshare.net
The entrance to the building is accessed through a wide marble staircase leading to three monumental doors carved from
precious wood. It is situated beneath a porch adorned with three pointed arches opening into three shell-vaults and
supported by sturdy columns. The perfect symmetry of the facade resembles classical European architecture.

The main entrance to the post office Perfect symmetry

Source: tripadvisor.co.uk From the facade
source: wikipedia.com
The Columns: At the top, a gallery with paired columns and a metal railing adorned with geometric patterns extends.
Along its entire length, it is highlighted by bands of green faience tiles displaying, in Arabic, the names of the main cities
of Algeria.

The Capitals: They are adorned with graceful stalactites (honeycomb-like structures, beehives) crafted from marble.

Paired columns in the Shaped

main facade of the post capital
office stalactites
The Dome: It is divided at regular intervals by the projection of meridian ribs converging towards its summit. This
ribbed dome design was common in the East since the Byzantine era. The central hall is covered by a dome shaped in
an octagonal plan. The stucco is intricately carved with a decoration of radiant geometric interlace patterns. This style of
decoration reminds us of the Andalusian ornamentation of the Alhambra.

Interior decoration of the dome

A cornice made up of round, glazed green tiles laid on wooden corbels. This motif is, in fact, of Andalusian origin,
typically reserved in Moorish architecture for patios.

The interior walls feature refined ornamentation, which involves dividing the surfaces into two parts: a
base composed of a polychrome mosaic of faience, topped by a stucco decoration.
The interior capital reproduces the "U" meander found in some Arab monuments in Tlemcen, with three types of
decorations:

Calligraphy: It involves the use of inscribed texts, which themselves create an ornamental effect through the undulations of
their lines.
Geometry: Through the application of principles such as repetition, symmetry, multiplication, and subdivision, extraordinary
variety of designs are created.
Floral Decor: Vegetal motifs, usually combined with stylized letters, are found in the tile band.