Travel
Boston vs Philadelphia: which historic US metropolis is finest?
Boston and Philadelphia are each US cities with wealthy histories that helped form the nation. Each have world-class establishments of artwork and tradition, sports activities groups with hordes of dedicated followers, and each cities make culinary claims to fame. However should you can go to solely one in every of them, which ought to it’s? That will help you resolve, we requested two writers to make the case for his or her favourite metropolis and what makes it so particular.
Boston is a university city with historical past, artistry and variety
Creator of Lonely Planet Boston and Pocket Boston, Mara Vorhees has been dwelling within the Olde Towne for the reason that final millennium. Her favourite approach to spend a morning is driving her bike alongside the Charles River.
After I first moved to Boston, I believed I had landed within the smartest place on the planet. I instantly fell in love with town’s vibrant scholar tradition and the pervasive love of studying. I nonetheless assume Boston is depraved sensible, however now I do know that’s just the start of what this dynamic metropolis has to supply. There’s additionally momentous historical past, various artwork and music, dramatic sports activities and – not the least – delectable seafood. That is all packed right into a compact metropolis middle overlaying just a few sq. miles.
However whereas it’s small in measurement, Boston is just not small in stature. Certainly, this metropolis by the ocean provides arts, training and innovation to rival cities twice its measurement (I’m you, Philly). The town’s world-class cultural establishments rank among the many most interesting within the nation, together with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fine Arts. A up to date artwork scene is flourishing within the SoWa Arts District and on the gorgeous Institute for Contemporary Art. Dozens of faculties and universities – and all of their college students – present a renewable supply of vitality, creativity and native tradition across the metropolis.
Talking of native tradition, Boston is an superior sports activities city, due to its groups’ storied histories and profitable data. We admit that we’re nonetheless a little bit bitter concerning the Eagles’ victory over the Patriots within the 2018 Tremendous Bowl. However who can dwell on one recreation, when the Pats have six Tremendous Bowl banners hanging at Gillette Stadium? Add that to the Red Sox’s 9 World Collection victories and the Celtics’ whopping 18 championships (greater than some other NBA staff), and also you’ll begin to perceive the origins of the nickname Metropolis of Champions. It’s true that Boston sports activities followers may be, let’s say, “further,” however Philly supporters would possibly even have us beat there.
Lastly, it must be mentioned: no metropolis can match Boston for its function in US revolutionary historical past, not even Philadelphia. That is the place the Sons of Liberty stirred up resistance to harsh British tax insurance policies, with protests just like the Boston Tea Celebration (which guests immediately can reenact on the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum). That is the place the Crown cracked down with a army occupation of town, and the following Boston Bloodbath in entrance of the Old State House. And that is the place the battle got here to a head, with the primary battles of the US Warfare for Independence in close by Lexington and Harmony (at websites now preserved by the Minute Man National Historical Park).
Certain, Philly is a historic metropolis too. Some noteworthy paperwork had been created there. However many of the revolutionary concepts in these paperwork had been born in Boston. Enjoyable truth: the founding fathers modeled the US Structure after the Massachusetts Constitution, which was written by John Adams 9 years earlier. (See some early variations of the doc within the Corridor of Flags on the Massachusetts State House.)
The very fact is that Boston and Philadelphia have loads in widespread. Spend a weekend in both city and you’ll in all probability go to some historic websites, admire some unbelievable art work, hear a cool native band or catch a energetic sporting occasion. However right here’s a essential query: what’s going to you eat? A Philly cheesesteak, aka, a coronary heart assault on a roll? Give me the easy perfection of a lobster roll any day.
Come to Philadelphia for the perspective, keep for the world-class metropolis
Tim McManus, a Philadelphian who moved away and returned to his residence metropolis – twice – is a contract author who writes about sport, journey and meals.
You already know that one story about Philadelphia, proper? The one which will get repeated yearly by hackneyed sportswriters and breathless broadcasters. Philly, they are saying disapprovingly, town that threw snowballs at Santa Claus.
It’s true, it did occur, at Franklin Subject, on December 15, 1968, throughout halftime of one other loss by a very depressing Philadelphia Eagles staff. They simply by no means inform you a very powerful half: Santa had it coming. How do I do know? My dad was there.
It had snowed that morning, and the Santa that the Eagles scheduled to seem at their halftime parade thought higher of it. So the staff pulled an imposter from the stands: a thin younger man in a mangy crimson swimsuit and drooping faux beard. They gave him an gear bag for a sack, handed him some low-cost sweet canes to toss into the group, and caught him on a sleigh that promptly acquired caught. It was the ultimate indignity for followers who arrived that frigid morning to seek out their seats had did not be cleared of snow. Somebody made the fateful first throw, one other adopted, and a deluge ensued.
Santa laughed it off nearly as good enjoyable and returned to his seat for the second half. However the subsequent factor you already know, Howard Cosell was speaking about it on ABC. The narrative had taken maintain: Philadelphians had been a mean-spirited, delinquent bunch. Philly was a spot the place even Santa wasn’t protected.
What these of us don’t get is that throwing snowballs at Santa does reveal the ethos of Philly, simply not in the way in which they assume. The true story is that Philly is a spot the place you may’t faux it. A spot the place authenticity is the whole lot and frauds get referred to as out rapidly. A spot the place folks demand what they deserve.
The chip on our shoulder comes naturally. The nation was born right here, however New York usurped us as the middle of tradition and Washington took our capital. Right here we stay, sandwiched between the 2, left with our delight and a lunch pail. We aren’t the middle of the universe, and if that bothers us, you’ll by no means get us to confess it.
“Philadelphia isn’t as unhealthy as Philadelphians say it’s.” That was, imagine it or not, an precise Chamber of Commerce slogan within the ‘70s. It was additionally one thing I wanted to find for myself. Many Philadelphians by no means go away. We keep near our households right here, we stand close to to our traditions. I did go away – for almost ten years over two stints. The town wasn’t what lured me again, however it was what stored me.
Philadelphia is 90 minutes’ away from each the mountains and the beach (“down the shore,” as we name it). It sits between the banks of two rivers, the Schuylkill and Delaware, and each waterfronts are being reclaimed after years of being lower off from the remainder of town.
You’ll be able to truly afford to personal a house right here, and the city is walkable sufficient that you would be able to ditch the automotive, should you’re so inclined. Neighborhoods on the outskirts of Middle Metropolis, locations like Graduate Hospital, Fishtown, and Passyunk Sq., have been revitalized by younger households drawn in by the accessibility and a restaurant scene nearly as good as any within the nation.
Now we have The Fabulous Philadelphians orchestra, and within the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art, two of the best collections on the planet, separated by lower than a mile. They might not make films about our universities, however we’ve got an Ivy League school too, and at the very least 30 different faculties.
There’s a thriving Italian Market, which is as a lot a Mexican or Vietnamese market nowadays, a Chinatown, and a Southeast Asian market. And naturally, Reading Terminal Market, the meals corridor that begat all of them.
That is the Philadelphia I discovered on my return: a metropolis nonetheless fast with a snowball, however one ever-so-gradually embracing a future that have to be constructed on greater than that.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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