Nestled among the cedar forests of the Blida mountains, Chrea Church , officially called Notre-Dame des Cèdres—is more than a building. It’s a silent witness to history, nature, and faith. Perched 1,550 meters above sea level, the church stands where mist, pine, and memory meet.

The Birth of Notre-Dame des Cèdres

The story of Chrea Church began in the early 1930s. Construction started in 1933 and ended the following year. On October 21, 1934, the chapel was officially inaugurated. Back then, Chréa was a peaceful mountain retreat, loved for its cool air and ski slopes. The French settlers wanted a sacred place to gather, pray, and admire nature’s calm beauty.

Architecture and Setting

The church’s stone walls reflect simplicity and harmony with its environment. Surrounded by giant cedars, it seems almost carved from the mountain itself. Inside, soft light filters through small windows, creating a serene and meditative space.
Outside, visitors are greeted by breathtaking views of the Chrea National Park, a landscape where snow, green forests, and silence blend perfectly.

From Chapel to Memory

After Algeria’s independence, the site experienced transformation. For a time, Chrea Church stopped serving as a Christian place of worship. Later, it became a mosque, symbolizing a new spiritual chapter in the region’s story. Today, many still call it the “ancienne église de Chréa” — the former church of Chréa. Its walls remain, carrying traces of every prayer ever whispered inside.

Chrea Church Today

Visitors who hike through Chréa often stop to admire the old chapel. Though quiet and modest, it holds deep emotional power. The combination of history, faith, and nature makes it one of Blida’s most remarkable hidden treasures. Photographers, hikers, and history lovers often describe it as a place where time stands still.

How to Visit

You can reach Chrea Church by following the road leading to Chréa National Park, about 15 km from Blida. The church is located near the ski station and easy to spot thanks to its rustic stone architecture. Visiting early in the morning or during sunset offers the best light and atmosphere.

Hidden Charm and Legacy

Beyond its religious past, Chrea Church reflects Algeria’s diverse cultural heritage. It tells a story of coexistence, resilience, and faith through time. While its original bells no longer ring, the mountain’s whispering wind seems to carry their echo—a soft reminder of the harmony once found here.