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On the global tourism map, there are destinations that do not need complex architectural works or skyscrapers to create attraction. They create their own unique identity, touching the emotions of visitors with the quintessential language of color. From the "green gem" Chefchaouen of Morocco, the charming "pink city" Toulouse of France to the brilliant "golden city" Izamal in Mexico, the world is dotted with architectural and cultural wonders, like an artist's palette brought to life.
There, a dominant color tone is not only an external decoration but also becomes the soul that shapes the culture, architecture and atmosphere of those destinations. These "color-coded" cities are a clear testament to the power of vision: just one color tone is enough to turn the entire space into a living work of art, where every street corner holds a unique historical story.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Nestled on the slopes of the majestic Rif Mountains in northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is known as the Blue Pearl. It is world-famous for the blue hues that pervade every corner of its medina. From the deep cobalt blue of lapis lazuli to the soft azure of sky, the entire space seems to be immersed in a dreamy painting.
This unique shade of blue has given rise to a number of interesting theories: some believe it repels mosquitoes, others believe it regulates temperatures on hot days, or is simply a spiritual symbol representing heaven in Jewish belief. Beyond the quaint, artistic alleys, Chefchaouen also offers breathtaking mountain views, vibrant artisan workshops, souks filled with souvenirs, and family-run cafes serving traditional local cuisine.
Sidi Bou Saïd, Tunisia
Leaning on a rocky slope overlooking the deep blue Gulf of Tunis, Sidi Bou Saïd appears like a Mediterranean dream with its pure white limewash, dotted with brilliant blue on the window frames, iron bars and doors. The picture is both elegant and enchanting, and has been an endless source of inspiration for many talented artists such as Paul Klee or Ammar Farhat.
Despite welcoming tourists all year round, the town still maintains a surprisingly slow and peaceful pace of life. Visitors can stroll along the poetic cobblestone streets, stop by a cafe shaded by bright pink bougainvillea, or follow the gentle slope up to where the ocean opens up to the Mediterranean sunset.
Ostuni, Italy
Known as La Città Bianca – The White City – Ostuni rises majestically like an ancient fortress amidst the olive-green Murgia hills of Puglia. The distinctive whitewashed houses are not only visually distinctive, but also practical: the lime helps reflect the sunlight, keeping the interior cool. In fact, the bright white is said to have dazzled approaching invaders in the past.
Stroll along the medieval cobblestone streets and you will come across the Santa Maria Assunta Church, a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. From the vantage points, Ostuni offers breathtaking views, with the blue Adriatic Sea on one side and the endless rolling hills on the other.
Alberobello
Thanks to its unique white pyramidal roofs called trulli, the town of Alberobello – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has a magical beauty that evokes the feeling of stepping into a fairytale world in the heart of Southern Italy.
These dry-stone structures, which date back to the mid-14th century, were cleverly designed to be quickly dismantled – a clever way for locals to skirt the law and avoid paying their lords’ land tax. This mortarless construction technique demonstrates the unique and ingenious adaptation of the Puglian people. Today, the iconic trulli have been converted into souvenir shops, cafes and accommodation, providing a complete and memorable experience for visitors.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur is nicknamed The Pink City because of the distinctive pink hue that covers most of its ancient architecture. This tradition dates back to 1876, when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh I painted the entire city pink – a color that symbolizes hospitality in Indian culture – to welcome the visit of Prince Albert Edward.
The city’s most iconic landmark is the Hawa Mahal Palace, built from pink sandstone and clad in lime of the same color. The façade’s honeycombed facade of 953 small windows (jharokhas) not only showcases the sophistication of Rajput architecture but also allowed royal women to observe the streets outside while maintaining their privacy.
Toulouse, France
Toulouse, France, is known as La Ville Rose ("The Pink City"). The name is associated with a distinct charm, originating from the buildings built with warm pink terracotta bricks. It is the richness of clay in this area that has shaped the vibrant urban appearance, different from many other regions of France.
Under the sunset, the whole city is covered in a soft pink layer, creating a feeling of both romance and tranquility. Visitors can stroll along the peaceful banks of the Garonne River, weave through the small alleys in the old town, or admire historical buildings such as the Saint-Sernin Church and the Capitole City Hall.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Famous for its colorful lanterns and ancient architecture dyed in bright yellow, Hoi An has become one of the top destinations and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.
Warm yellow walls not only create the perfect backdrop for every frame but also contain many meanings: practically, the light yellow color helps reflect sunlight, keeping the house cool; culturally, yellow symbolizes royalty, prosperity and luck - values associated with the Asian spirit. That yellow color covers familiar structures such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the 18th-century Tan Ky Ancient House, creating a unique color harmony that only Hoi An has - both classic, radiant and full of life.
