The most interesting colonial towns in the world

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Olinda, Brazil

While colonial past was rarely pleasant, especially for the colonized people, it must be said that the end result has some good parts too, even if they are limited to nice colonial architecture and an interesting blend of cultures.

For that reason, ex-colonies have a unique charm, and if for whatever reason you are interested in colonial history or simply enjoy a good cultural mix, then there are quite a few places you might want to visit. So for tourists interested in such things, here are the most interesting colonial towns in the world.

Cusco, Peru

photo by _e.t.

Cusco is undoubtedly the gem of all South American colonial cities, and the best preserved as well, second only to Potosi, perhaps. It is also one of the oldest cities on the continent, so in addition to the charm of colonial architecture, it has a solid base of Inca history.

The Spanish conquistadors left behind a heritage of countless churches, convents and municipal buildings which haven’t changed in the past four centuries.

Olinda, Brazil

Olinda is special not only because of its magnificent European colonial architecture, but also because it incorporates a great deal of its African colonial past as well. Churches, buildings, elegant streets are at their best in the old city center, but another one of the city’s attractions is its annual carnival, quite different from the one in Rio, but equally enjoyable.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Although the Cambodian capital is turning into a modern metropolis with high-rise buildings, there is enough left of the colonial center let over from the times of French rule.

Phnom Penh used to be called the Paris of the East, with its wide boulevards, amazing riverfront dotted with small cafes and restaurants, and it still retains its picturesque atmosphere.

Bandung, West Java

The capital of West Java used to be a Dutch colony, and so beautiful that the colonizers nicknamed it the Paris of Java. The colonial/European atmosphere of the city is certainly very pronounced, and there are lots of buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th century, as well as a great deal of early 20th century art deco architecture. The historical neighborhood is very well preserved and a joy to walk around.

Macau, China

Macau used to be a Portuguese colony, and its colonial architecture looks like it hasn’t changed all that much since then. Aside from being the largest gambling destination in Asia, Macau is a very interesting mixture of Portuguese and Chinese influences, oozing with atmosphere and attractions, with a maze of little alleys and a jumble of shops and businesses.

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