New Orleans is a port city located on the Mississippi River in southeastern Louisiana. Best known for the French Quarter, voodoo, Mardi Gras and jazz, this one-of-a-kind place is such a unique vacation destination. Here is a list of facts you didn’t know about this quirky city.
The French Quarter Isn’t That French
The city was indeed formed by the French, it was named after Philippe II, Duke of Orléans in 1718. However, the Quarter was built during the Spanish rule. Many streets stillbeare French names, paying homage to the city’s origins, but the dominating architectural themes are Spanish.
New Orleans Is The Birthplace Of Jazz Music
Jazz was born with a drum, and not with a horn. It was the first city that allowed slaves to own an instrument. The famous trumpeter, composer, singer, occasional actor and one of the most influential figures in jazz, Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans.
The City If Famous for its Cuisine
New Orleans has a very unique and diverse cuisine. Beignets and soups made of turtle and alligator are local specialties.