الحواضر العلمية في الجزائر العثمانية قراءة في الصعود العلمي لحاضرة دار السلطان وحواضر بايلك الغرب

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the development of scientific centers in Algeria during the Ottoman era, focusing on the capital city of Dar al-Sultan (Algiers) and cities affiliated with the Western Beylik, such as Tlemcen and Mascara, to understand their role in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of the region. The research examines the nature of educational institutions at the time, including mosques, madrasas, and libraries, as well as the contributions of scholars and scholarly families to enriching intellectual life. It also highlights the role of Andalusian migrations in revitalizing scientific activity and expanding library collections. Adopting a historical-analytical methodology, the study systematically analyzes data from available historical sources to comprehensively assess the evolution and functions of these scientific centers during this period.

The research seeks to provide a critical reinterpretation of Ottoman Algerian history that transcends traditional narratives centered on political and military dimensions. The study yields significant findings: Algiers emerged as a prominent scientific hub, attracting scholars and students from diverse regions, earning it the epithet "Little Istanbul" due to its intellectual vibrancy. Scholarly dynasties, such as the Qadura and al-Maqri families, played a pivotal role in preserving and disseminating knowledge. Institutions like the Mazuna Fiqh Madrasa drew students from across the Islamic Maghreb. The influx of Andalusian scholars stimulated scientific activity and enriched libraries. Furthermore, Ottoman support for scientific endeavors-through infrastructure development and the appointment of scholars to administrative and judicial roles-facilitated the flourishing of interdisciplinary scholarship and the emergence of a learned class.