Algeria is a country located in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north. It is the largest country in Africa and the 10th largest in the world, covering an area of about 2.38 million square kilometers. The capital city is Algiers, which is known for its rich history and diverse culture. Algeria's landscape includes the vast Sahara Desert, mountains, and coastal regions. The official language of Algeria is Arabic, and the country has a diverse population that includes Berber and Arab communities. Algeria gained independence from France in 1962 after a long and brutal war. The economy is largely based on hydrocarbons, with oil and natural gas being the main exports.