← Back to figures
Islamic & Medieval Era

Buluggin ibn Ziri

Early Islamic / Medieval

Leaders & StatesmenLate 10th centuryAlgiers

He is often named as the founder of medieval Algiers (al-Jazair).

Historical significance

He is traditionally credited with founding or rebuilding several major Algerian cities, including Algiers and Miliana.

Their story

Son of Ziri ibn Manad, Buluggin took over leadership of the Zirids when the Fatimids moved their capital to Egypt. Trusted to govern the Maghreb in their name, he reorganized cities, founded new ones and pushed Zirid rule deep into the region.

Did you know?

He is often named as the founder of medieval Algiers (al-Jazair).

Test yourself
🕵️ Try the Guess the Figure quiz
Can you recognise the legends of Algeria?