Algeria: The Largest Country in Africa by Area
Algeria holds the title of the largest country on the African continent and is the tenth largest country in the world, covering an area of approximately 2,381,740 square kilometers. This vast nation is located in the northern part of Africa, where Muslims make up the majority of the population. Most of the inhabitants are concentrated along the Mediterranean coastline, while the southern region is dominated by the Sahara Desert, giving Algeria a semi-arid climate characterized by extremely hot midday temperatures and significantly cooler nights.
Geographical Location of Algeria
To the east, Algeria shares its borders with Tunisia and Libya, while the countries of Mali, Niger, and Mauritania lie to the south. To the west, it is bordered by Morocco and Western Sahara, and to the north, it has a coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. The southern part of Algeria is covered by the Atlas Mountains, which create a natural division between the coastal areas in the north and the desert regions in the south. The highest point in the country is Mount Tahat in the Sahara, reaching an elevation of 3,000 meters.
General Information about Algeria
Here are some general facts about Algeria:
- Algeria gained independence from France in 1962.
- It boasts several sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Qal’at Bani Hammad and the Kasbah of Algiers.
- The climate of Algeria is generally classified as a temperate Mediterranean climate.
- The country is a significant exporter of oil and natural gas, making energy exports a cornerstone of its economy.
- As of the 2021 census, Algeria’s population is approximately 44.7 million, ranking it as the 32nd most populous country in the world, with most residents descending from Arab and Amazigh origins.
- Arabic is the official language of Algeria, and Islam is the predominant religion.
- Algeria is a member of the Arab League, the United Nations, and the African Union.
- The capital city, Algiers, is a bustling coastal metropolis adjacent to the sea, while Oran is the second-largest city, serving as a major port on the Mediterranean coast near the border with Morocco.