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Oran is perhaps most famous for being one of the birthplaces of the Ra music style This inventive music form is one of the more modern music forms popularly enjoyed in the various parts of Algeria and all over the world The easy going and liberal atmosphere that pervades the city of Oran is clearly evident in the music style Initially performed only by men, it soon became the domain of many women - many of whom have become every bit as popular as their male counterparts

Founded by Moorish Andalusian traders around AD 937, the city has been around a long time Due to its position on the coast, it quickly developed into a city with a thriving trade industry and developed strong business ties with Spain Unfortunately it wasn't too long before the Spanish took occupation of Oran

Oran is a lot larger than many think The second largest city in Algeria, it is an industrial, cultural and educational centre for the country Though part of it is covered by high-rise apartment buildings and fairly unattractive homes, there are older parts which make for interesting sight seeing The Great Mosque built in 1769 is a good place to start It is open to the public which is quite unusual in this part of the world The Marabout Sidi Mohammed El Haouri is a very good example of Andalusian architecture For all things historical, the Demaegth Museum has exhibitions which span thousands of years

Though Oran is a costal town, the beaches in the immediate vicinity of the city are not terribly good However a short trip away from the hustle and bustle will leave you with miles of beautiful sand and refreshing sea water It may be a bit out of the way, but Oran is a great place to visit while traveling Algeria