Investigating the controversial phenomenon
Ancient capitals are usually the places we head to when looking for great culture and history, but there are other, smaller cities that pack a serious historical punch. In fact, you can find small cities all around the world that are filled with fascinating stories, and they're gorgeous too!
In this gallery, we list some of the most underrated little cities that history buffs will love. Click through the gallery to reveal them.
In Takayama's Sanmachi Suji area, you will find several Edo-period buildings. There are historic sake breweries and many other historical attractions, such as the Hida Folk Village (or Hida no Sato), where visitors can find close to 30 old farmhouses.
Edinburgh may attract more visitors, but this city on the banks of the River Tay is well worth a visit. One of Perth's main attractions is the 12th-century Scone Palace, where the Scottish kings used to be crowned.
The architectural beauty contrasts with the bullet holes left by the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s. The famous Stari Most (Old Bridge) over the Neretva River is a magnificent view.
Leh has the Himalayas as a backdrop, and for that alone, it's worth a visit. The 17th-century Leh Palace is the best spot to soak in the vistas. Leh's Old Town with its historic mud houses adds to the charm.
Get lost in Koto's cobbled streets and head to the 17th-century clock tower for great views of the city and the natural wonders beyond. The Serbo-Byzantine-style Church of St Nicholas is also worth a visit.
The city dates back to the 12th century, and much of its medieval architecture remains intact. Lucerne's Old Town is teeming with history. There, you'll find fortified walls, guildhalls, covered wooden bridges, and so much more.
The mix of Spanish, Filipino, and Chinese architecture makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site a very special place. Vigan dates back to the 16th century and its historic center is truly magical.
"The White City" was a prominent French seaport between the 14th and 17th centuries. The Vieux Port (Old Port) with its towers is one of La Rochelle's main attractions.
Chania has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. The capital of Crete from 1841 to 1971, it's best known for its gorgeous 14th-century Venetian harbor.
Lubeck is a UNESCO World Heritage site with plenty to see. The city dates back to the 12th century, and it's known for its brick Gothic-style churches and gate called the Museum Holstentor.
This small city is home to a gorgeous 16th-century Gothic cathedral and the medieval castle Alcazar de Segovia. The Jewish Quarter is also worth a visit, as is the ancient Roman aqueduct.
The UK is home to numerous places of interest, and the smallest city in England is definitely one of them. One of Wells' highlights is the Bishop's Palace, the traditional home of the bishops of Bath and Wells. A famous cobbled street known as Vicars' Close (pictured) is also a must-see.
Matera was the European Capital of Culture in 2019, and it certainly deserved it. Known for its Sassi (historic cave dwellings where people have lived since the Paleolithic period), Matera is also home to a 13th-century stone cathedral.
Merida's Roman heritage is the city's biggest attraction. Located in the southwest of the country, Merida features a range of well-preserved Roman-era ruins, including a theater, a bridge, and an aqueduct.
Founded in the 16th century by Spanish conquistador Sebastian de Belalcazar, Popayan still preserves much of its European influences. Highlights include the Casa Museo Mosquera and the Iglesia de San Francisco (pictured).
Ogden dates all the way back to 1851. The city played an important role in the history of the American railway. This is where the junction of the Union Pacific and Central Pacific rail lines was located.
Located in Belgium's Walloon Region, this small city on the banks of the Meuse River is where the inventor of the saxophone, Adolphe Sax, lived. The 19th-century Citadelle de Dinant is one of its most famous attractions.
Akureyri's history dates back to the 16th century. In addition to the spectacular surrounding scenery, there are also some interesting museums in the city, namely the Akureyri Museum.
Founded in 1523 by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba, Granada is one of the oldest cities in Central America. Guadalupe Church is one of the highlights.
Away from the country's tourist hotspots, Lampang remains pretty much unspoiled. Here you'll find beautiful temples and fascinating architecture.
Legend has it that St Patrick’s Cathedral was built atop a hill in Armagh by Saint Patrick himself. The church dates all the way back to 445 CE.
First Nations people used to meet in the region before the Europeans arrived. Kingston dates back to the 17th century, and it was one of the first European settlements in Ontario.
The city, known as the Venice of Portugal, is quite unique in how it's dominated by canals and picturesque boats. Also, don't forget to try the typical ovos moles, a traditional sweet made of egg yolk and sugar.
Ouro Preto (black gold) was an important settlement during the Brazilian Gold Rush of the 17th century. Stunning Portuguese architecture mixed with local influences makes Ouro Preto a great spot to visit.
Colonized by the British in 1811, the city in South Africa's Western Cape was named after King George III. Highlights include the Dutch Reformed Mother Church (pictured).
Those visiting Lake Titicaca might not end up visiting the city, but Peru's "folklore capital" is always worth a visit. Puno dates back to 1668, and it has the architecture to match.
This small city in Morocco's Sous Valley has everything one would expect from a historical Moroccan city, including souks, squares, fortification walls, and everything in between.
Sitting on the banks of the Neckar River, surrounded by lush forest, Heidelberg has a lot to see. Popular destinations include the Heidelberg Castle and the Kurpfalzisches Museum.
The former capital of Roman Britain has over 2,000 years of history. From the Temple of Claudius to the castle, Colchester packs a lot heritage into a small town.
Sources: (Love Exploring)
See also: The best small cities in the world
Small historical cities that are totally underrated
Fascinating destinations from all over the world
TRAVEL History
Ancient capitals are usually the places we head to when looking for great culture and history, but there are other, smaller cities that pack a serious historical punch. In fact, you can find small cities all around the world that are filled with fascinating stories, and they're gorgeous too!
In this gallery, we list some of the most underrated little cities that history buffs will love. Click through the gallery to reveal them.