Throughout history, walls were not only for defence, but also symbols of power and wealth for the cities they protected. The walls were built for various reasons: sometimes to protect cities from enemies, sometimes to delimit borders between peoples, countries or civilisations.
Their origins date back to prehistoric times and since then the techniques and materials used have gradually improved. Although many of these walls have been altered or demolished with the growth of cities and the appearance of urban extensions throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, today we can still enjoy many walls that have become more of a tourist attraction.
In today's article, discover some of the most impressive walled cities in the world. Get your pen and paper ready to write down some of the destinations you can go to, to enjoy these impressive traces of history in person.
Citadel of Carcassone, France
This is a unique town and fortified complex that forms the oldest part of the population centre of the French municipality of Carcassonne. Composed mainly of elements that have survived many attempts at destruction since the Middle Ages.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and its castle and ramparts are one of the most popular tourist attractions in France. Surrounded by a walled city 3 kilometres long, it retains the interior of a medieval European town with its narrow, winding streets, half-timbered buildings and artisan quarters.
Walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a fortified city on the Adriatic coast in the far south of Croatia. These walls are a series of protective stone walls, which surrounded and protected the inhabitants of the later named maritime city of Dubrovnik.
It was enlarged and modified several times throughout its history, but it is considered one of the greatest fortifications of the Middle Ages, as it was never invaded by enemy troops during this period. Nowadays, the walls built between the 12th and 17th centuries are the main remains. This "Pearl of the Adriatic" was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979.
Walls of Constantinople, Turkey
The walls of Constantinople have surrounded and protected the city since Emperor Constantine I the Great named it the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Throughout history the walls have undergone several modifications, but they are considered one of the greatest fortification systems of antiquity, and one of the most elaborate and complex defence systems ever built.
Nevertheless, it failed to prevent the Ottomans from taking the city through an ingenious system of transporting their ships overland. UNESCO declared the city walls a World Heritage Site in 1985.
Wall of Ávila, Spain
In Spain, close by, we can also find an amazing wall, more precisely in Ávila. This impressive wall surrounds the entire city: 12 metres high, 3 metres thick and over 2,500 metres long. It is the best preserved medieval walled enclosure in Europe.
It was built between the 11th and 14th centuries, and its main function was to defend the city against possible invasions and attacks. In addition to its defensive function, the wall also served as a means of control and access to the city. The gates with their towers were strategic points where the entry and exit of people and goods were controlled. In 1985, the wall was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, thus becoming a symbol of international importance.
Wall of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
In the beautiful city of Cartagena de Indias, in the Colombian Caribbean, are these impressive walls that bear witness to its rich history. These imposing walls were built in the 18th century by Spain to protect the city from the constant attacks of English and French pirates.
Today, the walls of Cartagena remain standing, offering visitors and locals a charming and lively setting. Within these fortifications are magnificent colonial mansions, lively squares and charming cafés and restaurants - a fantastic way to enjoy a World Heritage Site, declared by UNESCO in 1984.
The Great Wall of China
In this case, the wall does not surround a city but this does not diminish its importance. On the contrary, this wall defended an entire empire. The Great Wall of China is an ancient fortification built and rebuilt between the 5th century BC and the 16th century under successive dynasties.
The main objective was to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire from attacks by the Mongolian and Manchurian Huns. Built with clay and sand and fortified with limestone bricks from the Beijing area, granite and fired bricks, it is around 21,200 kilometres long. In 1987, the wall was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Traditional Portuguese food: 10 must-try dishes
Planning a holiday or thinking of moving to Portugal in 2025? Then you’re in for a real treat—literally. Portuguese food is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, offering bold flavours, hearty dishes, and rich culinary traditions influenced by Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisines. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, no trip is complete without tasting the country’s most iconic dishes.
Portuguese passport ranks 4th globally: visa-free travel & EU benefits
A passport is far more than a simple travel document; it is a measure of global mobility and the key that can unlock opportunities across the world. The strength of the passport you hold directly influences your freedom to explore, work, and live internationally, with some nationalities enjoying far greater access than others.
4 affordable outdoor pools to visit in the Algarve
Looking for the best outdoor pools in the Algarve for a relaxing swim, family fun, or an affordable day pass? With well-maintained facilities, extended opening hours and budget-friendly entry fees, these outdoor pools across the Algarve are increasingly popular with locals and visitors alike.
Where Portugal’s football stars live: from Cascais to London and beyond
Following their victory in the 2024/25 Nations League, all eyes are on the players of the Portuguese national team. Beyond their performances on the pitch, there is growing curiosity about their lives off the field – in particular, where the stars representing the country at the highest level of international football have chosen to call home.
Living in Funchal: Madeira’s gentle capital
Located between Atlantic waves and green hills, Funchal is Madeira’s easy-going capital with a distinctly local flavour. Life unfolds at a comfortable pace, with daily routines shaped by the sea, mountain air, and a city centre full of markets and friendly faces. Living in Funchal means enjoying mild weather, great food, and a welcoming community that makes it easy to slip right in.
Best places in Portugal for digital nomads
Thinking about life as a digital nomad in Portugal? While Lisbon and Porto often top lists of the best places in Portugal for digital nomads—with all the perks and some rapidly rising rents—they’re far from your only options. Across the country, smaller towns and rural regions offer affordable living, great scenery, and a slower pace that many remote workers now prefer. Don’t overlook Portugal’s lesser-known spots, where you can enjoy authentic local life and still stay connected.
Sustainable living in Portugal: off-grid homes and eco-villages
What’s happening with sustainable living in Portugal is more than just a passing phase. It's genuinely becoming part of the culture now, popping up in the cities as much as it is in rural communities. Some people are going fully off-grid in quiet eco-villages, while others are designing clever, energy-efficient casas sustentáveis. It shows a fascinating part of the country's character, where a deep respect for the land meets forward-thinking ways to protect it.