Algeria is a North African country that has a sizeable land area that borders about 6 other African countries. The nation covers an area of 2,381,741 square kilometers (919,595 sq mi), making it the largest country in Africa and the world’s 10th largest nation by area. Algeria is a longtime member of the OPEC and its Economy is heavily reliant on petroleum. Among many other interesting facts about the country, Algeria has a National Animal.
Here Are 10 Fascinating Facts About Algeria
1. Over Four-Fifths of the Country is Desert
About 80% of Algeria is covered by the Sahara Desert and it has a semi-arid geography, with most of the population living in the fertile north. Also, the country borders other African countries like Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Morocco.
2. It Was Formerly Known as Numidia Kingdom
Algeria was known as Numidian Kingdom which was formed in 200 BC. The Kingdom was created from the original Kingdom of Carthage and the people were called Numidian and Imazighen which means ‘free men’.
Meanwhile, the territory was previously colonized by the Romans, and also the French. It gained its independence in 1962 following the movement for independence in 1914.
3. It is Mandatory for men aged 19-30 to Serve in the Military for 12 Months
In Algeria, anyone between the ages of 19-30 must serve in the military for 12 months.
Also, for several years, Algeria has maintained the largest defense budget in Africa. The country’s defense budget is $10 billion. In addition to its large military budget, the country has over 140,000 active troops and an additional 150,000 reserve troops. The military of Algeria consists of the People’s National Army (ANP), the Algerian National Navy (MRA), the Algerian Air Force (QJJ), and the Territorial Air Defence Forces.
4. English is not Common in Algeria
English language is known to be a global language and is often spoken by other African countries as a second language. However, it is quite the opposite in Algeria. The country speaks three languages with Arabic as the Official language, Berber, and French. The English language in Algeria is mostly taught in schools.
5. The Tallest Minaret in The World is Situated In The County
Djamaa el Djazair, the Great Mosque of Algiers has the tallest Minaret in the entire world and is located in Algiers. A minaret is a tall slender tower of an Islamic mosque from which the muezzin recites the adhan (call to prayer). The minaret in Algeria stands at a height of 264.3m (867ft) above the city. Moreso it is the tallest building in Africa after the Iconic Tower of Egypt.
6. It has Seven UNESCO Sites
UNESCO has preserved seven sites in Algeria due to the conflict and the histories surrounding the sites. The first site, Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad was added to the World Heritage List in 1980. Subsequently, in 1982 Djemila, Timgad, M’zab Valley, Tipasa, and Melika were added to the list. Kasbah of Algiers was also added in 1992.
7. Algeria has a National Animal
The national animal for Algeria is the Fennec fox or Vulpes zerda. It also serves as the nickname for the Algeria national football team “Les Fennecs”. The creature is known to be the smallest species of fox in the world. It has a small physique with large ears that are up to 6 inches (15.24cm) and often weighs 2.2 to 3.3 pounds.
The fox is usually found in the desert and can adapt to the region due to their batlike ears that emit heat and keep them tepid. Also, their hair keeps them warm during cold periods and from the scorching sun during the daytime.
7. The Algerian Judiciary is Dominated by Women
Interestingly, when it comes to the judiciary in Algeria, it is primarily dominated by women although the country is patriarchal.
The Algerian judiciary has 70% women lawyers and 60% percent of judges are women.
Moreover, there are about 30 organizations in Algeria that fight and clamor against women’s oppression in the nation and most of these organizations are led by women. Generally, Algeria has made good progress in the advocacy of women’s rights and is still thriving in making it better.
9. Algeria’s Economy is Reliant on Petroleum
Algeria has a large deposit of crude oil and the country’s economy is reliant on petroleum. Moreover, Algeria has been an OPEC member since 1969 and its crude oil production stands at over 1 million barrels a day.
See Also: First African Country To Gain Independence: How Others Followed
10. Algerian Dates are Often Referred to as ‘The Queen of All Dates’
The species Delget Noor is one of the most appreciated species of dates and is regarded as the ‘Queen of all Dates’ because of its high quality and distinct taste. The Delget Noor is one of Algeria’s export products. Algeria has more than half a million date palm trees producing these sweet fruits that are highly rich in fiber, Vitamin K, and B-complex.
