Population, Political Divisions

Algeria is divided into 48 provinces (wilayat). These are subdivided into nearly 700 local communes.

Algiers is the capital, chief seaport, and largest city. Other important cities are Oran, a trading center; Annaba, an industrial and manufacturing center; Arzew and Skikda, both centers for petroleum refining; and Constantine, the hub of a livestock- and wheat-producing region.