ORAN

Population 1.5 Million

Regional Area 2,114 km²

Location 450km West of the capital Algiers. 200km South of Spain across Mediterranean Sea. North Coast of Algeria, North Africa.

Airport Oran Es-Senia International Airport, 12km south of the City Centre.

Origin of the name

The name "Oran" is a French transliteration of "Wahran" which is locally believed to originate from the ancient Moorish word "wahr", meaning lion, and the suffix "-an" meaning two lions. A locally popular legend tells that in the period around 900 BC there were sightings of lions in the area. The two last felines were killed in a mountain near the city of Oran which is called now La montagne des Lions (Mountain of Lions). In fact, there are two giant lion statues in front of Oran's city hall. The twin lions are Oran's symbol.

Oran is a major port and a commercial centre, and has 3 universities.

Besides the bustling commercial city centre and port, Oran's major centre of business and industry lies in the oil refineries and multinational corporations located in the town of Arzew - 20 miles North East of Oran City.

The region of Oran is the ideal place to spend some quality time with friends, family or even yourself. It is a place that remains 'undiscovered'.

In the Spring and Summer, Oran offers a wide choice of beaches and a magnificent coral reef close to Cap Blanc and Madagh. Simply driving around making your choice can take a large chunk out of the day!

Apart from beaches, the area comprises of historical attractions such as the magnificent Santa Cruz fort and Great Mosque of the Pasha which recently became open to the public.

Front de Mer (Oran's balcony) is the only place to be during the evening after a long day. It boasts fine crêperies and pleasant restaurants & pizzerias.