With roots dating to Roman times, prospered in the Middle Ages through wool trade, boasting landmarks like Our Lady’s Row cottages (1316).
Česky Krumlov boasts a 13th-century castle and the Gothic church of St Vitus, consecrated in 1439, with ownership held by just three aristocratic families over the centuries.
Hanoi, Vietnam's ancient capital on the Hong River, intertwines a millennium-old street labyrinth, blending medieval shop fronts with modern architecture.
Features well-preserved medieval landmarks from the 13th and 14th centuries, including the world’s largest pedestrian zone in its Medina.
Bamberg, Germany, established in 902, is famed for its beer, including the iconic dark smoke beer, with breweries like the 15th-century Schlenkerla pub.
Sighisoara, impressively preserves its early architecture, including a citadel with walls, nine towers, and a clock tower at Romania's heart.
Monsanto, a 12th-century Portuguese town near the Spanish border, showcases a castle from 1171, now in ruins, defending against the Moors.
Nuremberg in Bavaria, Germany, mentioned in 1050, became a medieval hub for commerce, trade, and the arts.
Features nearly 2 miles (3.2km) of walls completed in the mid-12th century, enclosing a city with rich medieval architecture.
Troyes, in northeastern France, flourished in the Middle Ages with trade, hosting annual fairs and giving rise to the Troy Weight system.