Place Ettoute, also known as Plassat Tout, officially as 1 november 1954 sqaure. is one of the most iconic landmarks in Blida, Algeria. Located in the heart of the city, this historic square blends centuries-old heritage with a lively modern atmosphere. From its Moorish-style kiosk to its surrounding cafés and gardens.
Location & Surroundings
Situated at the southwest end of the city’s main boulevard, Place Ettoute is surrounded by key landmarks:
- Bab Essebt (north)
- Kawther Mosque و Bab Errahba (south)
- Rue d’Alger و Bab Edzair (east)
- Lycée Ibn Rochd و Patrice Lumumba Garden (west)
The Moorish Style Music Kiosk A Symbol of Blida
At the square’s center stands a white Moorish-style kiosk, an emblem of the city’s charm. The area is pedestrianized, perfect for relaxing strolls. Around the square, visitors can enjoy traditional coffee houses و famous ice cream shops, including:
Siksico
Andalusia Coffee
Qahwat Challane
Origin of the Name “Ettoute”
Two main theories explain the name:
- From Administration Buildings, A shortened form of “Place de toutes les administrations” (Square of All Administrations) from the colonial period.
- From Mulberry Trees, In Algerian Arabic, tout means mulberry tree. In the 1980s, mulberry trees were planted here, replacing older plane trees.
Historical Significance
Place Ettoute is more than a public square, it’s where Blida’s history began.
- In the 1530s, Sid Ahmed el Kebir, founder of Blida, built the city’s first mosque (Djemaa Sidi el Kebir), along with a hammam and a communal bakery on the site.
- Under French colonial rule, the square changed names several times: Place d’Armes, Place Clemenceau, Place du Kiosque. It was used for military parades, public gatherings, and celebrations.
Timeline of Key Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1867 | Temporary tents were set up after an earthquake to shelter residents. |
| 1870–1871 | French soldiers played jeu de Paume here; the city built a water basin to stop the games. A mulberry tree was planted, later replaced by a poplar and then a symbolic palm tree (“Tree of Liberty”). |
| 1910 | Wooden Andalusian-style kiosk built around the palm tree. |
| 1947 | Sirocco winds damaged the palm tree; several replacements followed. |
| 2000 | Mayor Hafsi renovated the kiosk, adding a circular rose garden. |
| 2017 | Major restoration included the fountain, landscaping, and green spaces. |
Place Ettoute Today
Now officially called Place du 1er Novembre 1954, the square remains a cultural hub of Blida. It is a favorite gathering spot for residents and visitors alike, offering:
- Open-air seatings
- Artisan ice cream and pastries
- Proximity to cultural sites
- Seasonal events.
إن Kawther Mosque provides a stunning backdrop.