Bouinan Church

Bouinan Church Colonial Foundation

The church of Bouinan stands at the center of what used to be the colonial heart of Bouinan, in the province of Blida. The French authorities officially created Bouinan as an administrative town in 1886, giving it a clear civic role within the region. From that moment, the settlement grew in a structured way and reflected the typical planning methods of the colonial era.

The town followed a strict geometric plan. Its nearly square layout measured about 400 meters per side, covering roughly 16 hectares. Straight, orthogonal streets formed a clean grid. Most houses were single-story with red roofs, while a few had two levels. Behind these homes, residents planted gardens that added greenery and order to the urban space. Public buildings also followed the same symmetrical logic, which reinforced the colonial identity of the town.

Architectural Details and Urban Role

The church rose in the southern section of the colonial center, and its main façade faced the south. This position made the building easy to spot from several streets. A tall bell tower dominated the skyline and quickly became one of Bouinan’s most recognizable landmarks. For European settlers, the tower served a visible symbol of Christian presence.

Historical Timeline

1886 marked a turning point for Bouinan. The town moved from military oversight to civilian colonial administration, which helped stabilize local governance and encouraged further development.

Today Function

After the end of the colonial period, the church no longer served its original religious function. Over time, the building found a new purpose that connected it to the community in a different way. Today, the Kafil El Yatim Association uses the former church to provide social support, particularly for orphans. This transformation gave the structure a new life and ensured that it continues to serve local residents with a positive mission.