Travel
Join with the power of Accra, Ghana
Accra, Ghana is filled with power and possibilities to attach with each town and its folks. Frenetic, bustling markets, new group areas like skate parks and artistic areas for artists to collect plus a nightlife with an awesome music scene, you may’t assist however join with the folks and tradition of Ghana.
Group builder Sandy Alibo and musician Pure Akan present you tips on how to join with the folks, music and tradition of Accra.
Sandy Alibo: I’ve lived in Ghana since 2016, and launched a collective referred to as Surf Ghana to empower youth by means of browsing and skateboarding. I just lately helped construct Freedom, the primary skate park in Ghana, situated in Accra. I’ve a ardour for connecting and provoking vacationers, native Ghanaians and the diaspora by means of board sports activities.
Pure Akan: I’m going by the identify Pure Akan, and have lived nearly all of my life in Ghana. To me, it’s dwelling – a spot the place guests are acquired properly, and the gateway to Africa. I’d describe my nation as a spot filled with colour, humor, music and tradition.
Why we predict you need to go to Accra
We each assume Accra is a house away from dwelling for everybody. Come take a look at Ghana’s progressive artwork and tradition scene as you join with the welcoming, form power all over the place right here. And look out – lots of people who go to find yourself shifting right here. Beneath are our shared ideas of tips on how to get probably the most out of Accra.
Connecting to Accra’s folks in its group areas
Sandy: One place to attach with folks in Accra is on the skate park I based. Individuals around the globe got here collectively to create a brand new playground to empower and rejoice youth. The power gives skateboards and sneakers for anybody who desires to be taught. And we’ve had singers like Kendrick Lamar cease by when passing by means of city.
Pure Akan: Jamestown is town’s oldest neighborhood – and it’s all about creativity. You’ll discover artwork on partitions, on the road and on homes. Everyone is aware of everybody right here, and that is actually the place you may see the tradition of Accra come to life. Wander round for your self and take a look at the fishing group, the lighthouse and the boxing gyms which have produced many champions like Azumah Nelson.
Accra’s most iconic monument is the Independence Arch in Black Star Sq, which was constructed to rejoice Ghana’s independence from Britain.
Sandy: Accra strikes quick. So when you find yourself able to decelerate, head to the Aburi Mountains, certainly one of the best places to visit in Ghana. Ghanaians come right here to get in a exercise, take pleasure in high quality time collectively and revel in a view of town. And it’s just one hour from Accra.
Pure Akan: Because the solar units, there’s no higher place to expertise Ghana and its great chaos than at Labadi Beach. It’s lovely – but it surely’s not only a place to calm down. There’s a lot extra happening. You may get a drink. Go horseback using. Watch the numerous performers. And expertise Accra’s magic.
Connecting to Accra’s tradition by means of the markets
Sandy: Kantamanto Market is the most important secondhand market in Africa, if not the world. For some folks, the markets can really feel overwhelming – however they’re a part of Ghanaian tradition and maybe the easiest way to know the dynamic of town.
Right here, you may perceive the social and financial affect of quick style on the world.
Coming to the market helped persuade me 4 years in the past to cease shopping for new, and begin buying solely from African designers. One store I like as a result of it celebrates African designers is Lokko Home. Based in 2008, this idea retailer promotes Africa’s city artwork, style and artistic tradition.
Pure Akan: All over the place you look in Accra, you will note folks promoting issues. Even in visitors, you should buy something and the whole lot. This avenue economic system is how lots of people earn their dwelling and do their purchasing.
Sandy: Seventeen kilometers exterior of Accra, you’ll uncover a few of Africa’s pure treasures at Shai Hills Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary with animals like antelopes, plus unimaginable views of the panorama. You possibly can even tour the reserve on a bike. It’s an awesome journey for households too. There’s mountaineering, mountain climbing and luxurious campsites for in a single day stays.
On the Noldor Residency (below the Institute Museum of Ghana), you will get a really feel for the Accra’s buzzing modern artwork scene. This program is an incubator that introduces unimaginable up-and-coming African artists to the worldwide artwork market.
Connecting to Accra by means of music
Pure Akan: You possibly can’t discuss Ghanian tradition with out speaking about Ghanian music. When you’re fortunate, when you’re on the town you’ll get to see me and different artists carry out. If you wish to occasion in Accra, you need to come ready. Occasions usually begin round 3pm and might final into the following morning.
Sandbox is a very lovely seaside membership that has a view of the Atlantic Ocean, with tons of meals and upscale cocktails to take pleasure in. It’s additionally an awesome place to look at the sundown.
Sandy: As soon as the solar units, it’s off to Bôndai, an eclectic worldwide restaurant. However there’s extra to certainly one of Accra’s most interesting eating places than the meals: the place additionally celebrates modern Ghanaian artists by displaying a everlasting artwork assortment on the partitions. The exhibitions pair simply nice with cocktails ready by among the metropolis’s greatest mixologists.
Pure Akan: Identified for its drinks utilizing regionally distilled liquor, Republic Bar is a house for each locals and vacationers. Attempt a Kokroko, a preferred cocktail in Ghana that blends a sugarcane-based spirit with hibiscus, lime, mint and brown sugar.
Palm Moments is a favourite for each of us – a restaurant and a bar the place Accra’s creatives meet.
Sandy: Right here, they care concerning the meals, the group and the folks. They know tips on how to carry folks collectively and their gatherings spill out onto the road.
Pure Akan: This a spot to attach, the place folks carry their power.
When you want a double dose of power, head to Jamestown Espresso and the related Alley Bar – a restaurant by day that turns it up at evening. As its identify suggests, Alley Bar is an alleyway that’s been reworked right into a bar. We each assume these is perhaps the perfect golf equipment within the metropolis.
Entrance Again is sort of a museum, with partitions coated in artwork you could purchase. They’ve received nice drinks and the occasion goes on and on and on…
Now that you just’ve heard our suggestions, it’s time to make your technique to Accra your self.
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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