Cities around the world are treasure troves of history, culture, and tradition, each with its own unique identity shaped by centuries of events, influences, and evolution. Some more so than others. Disclaimer: here we will be avoiding the mainstream (read: Rome, Venice, Paris, and the like) in order to showcase the unexpected.
VALLETTA (Malta - Europe): under the insignia of the Templars
A fortified city of extraordinary historical and cultural value, founded by the Knights Hospitaller in 1566, the capital of Malta is rich in Baroque architecture, with splendid palaces, churches, and ramparts. The city is also home to St. John's Cathedral, famous for its ornate interiors and for housing works of art by Caravaggio. Despite its historical importance, Valletta remains a relatively obscure destination outside of the more traditional tourist circuits. At the Grand Master's Palace, the former residence of the head of the Order of the Knights of St. John, amidst authentic armaments and ornate rooms, visitors will find themselves immersed in the history of the Knights Hospitaller, protagonists in the defense of Malta during the Middle Ages.
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SAMARKAND (Uzbekistan - Asia): the city of Tamerlane
Located along the historic Silk Road, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Known for its majestic mosques, medrese, and richly decorated mausoleums, such as the splendid Registan Square, Samarkand is a crossroads of cultures and historical influences. The city has been an important commercial and cultural center for centuries, and its ancient charm continues to enchant its visitors. The Mausoleum of Gur-e-Amir in Samarkand, the burial place of the great conqueror Tamerlane, is a masterpiece of Timurid architecture. With its magnificent turquoise dome and intricate decorations, it offers a deep dive into the history and cultural heritage of Central Asia.
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LUANG PRABANG (Laos - Asia): between spirituality and culture
Located between the Mekong and Khan rivers, this little city is one of Southeast Asia's hidden gems. With its golden temples, Buddhist monasteries, and French colonial architecture, Luang Prabang is a place where spirituality and culture converge. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its tranquil atmosphere, night markets, and its tradition of the Tak Bat (the quest of the monks) make it a unique destination brimming with history. The Temple of Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most important and best preserved in Laos and exemplifies the essence of Laotian religious architecture. Built in the 16th century, it is famous for its gilded detailing and colorful mosaics, offering an authentic insight into local spirituality.
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GUANAJUATO (Mexico - North America): paying homage to Cervantes
Located in the heart of Mexico, Guanajuato is a vibrant city with a rich history closely entwined with the colonial era and silver mining. With its winding streets, colorful colonial buildings, and historic mines, Guanajuato is also famous for the Festival Internacional Cervantino, one of the most important cultural events in Latin America, celebrating local arts and traditions. Established in 1972 and named after Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, it is famous for its roots in theatrical traditions, most notably its performances of entremeses, short plays by Cervantes. Over the years it has evolved and expanded, becoming a multidisciplinary event that attracts world-renowned artists from a variety of fields: music, theatre, dance, visual arts, cinema, and literature. It has hosted Leonard Bernstein, Joan Miró, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Philip Glass, and the Martha Graham Dance Company, just to name a few.
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PLOVDIV (Bulgaria - Europe)
Surprisingly, Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with over 6,000 years of history. Located in the heart of Bulgaria, Plovdiv is a city of considerable charm and historic value, with a well-preserved center featuring cobblestone streets, Renaissance-style houses, and an impressive Roman theater that is still used for performances. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2019, an accolade that shone a spotlight on its rich cultural heritage.
The Kapana arts district, also known as "The Trap", is a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with art galleries, artisanal shops, cafes, and trendy bars. The creative heart of Plovdiv, where tradition and innovation meet, it offers a sensory journey through contemporary art and local culture in a unique historical setting.