French Quarter African History & Architecture Tour
Read New Orleans' wrought iron as a record of African history and artistry
Duration
2 hrs
Ideal For
Up to 16 people
Includes
Architecture, history, art walk
Highlights
Explore the French Quarter through the African visual languages embedded in its ironwork, stonework, and tile. This guided history and art walk reveals Adinkra symbols, Yoruba iconography, Bogolanfini text, and Vodou sigils hidden in plain sight across the city.
Based on the research in From Forged Fire, the tour connects local architecture with the cultures and skilled artists who shaped it.
- Trace Adinkra, Yoruba, Bogolanfini, and Vodou symbols through the French Quarter
- Read wrought-iron rails, gates, curbstones, and tilework as records of cultural history
- Join a conversational art walk with time for questions and shared stories
Itinerary
We look at symbols woven throughout the city. We discuss the cultures that brought them here, and what those symbols meant to them. In some cases, those symbols are a secret language, throughout the French Quarter and environs.
We start downtown, and make our way into the French Quarter. We'll discuss Canal Street, often the literal battle lines in fierce conflicts over rights, freedom, and enslavement.
We continue on our journey through ages past into regions of West Africa, exploring writing systems of the Ashanti, the Yoruba, the text of Bogolan Fini and spiritual symbols of summoning used by Mambos and Priests of Voudon (Voodoo,) all woven throughout local architecture.
Our tour concludes in the French Market in front of two Black-owned restaurants: Meals From the Heart offers traditional favorites like red beans and rice and their signature Crab Cake Passion as well as amazing vegan gumbo. Right next door, for more adventurous eaters, World Famous N'awlins Cafe' and Spice Emporium offers alligator, frog legs and boudin on a stick, as well as a fine selection of personally crafted spice blends.
Important details
- Expect direct discussions of enslavement, trafficking, and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
- Tours run rain or shine
- Sidewalk conditions can make the route difficult for people with impaired mobility
Cancellation Policy
Full refund with more than 24 hours' notice.
Product ID: X37EDD
FAQs
This walking tour runs rain or shine but may be canceled if severe weather conditions, including expected flooding, are declared.
Families are welcome, but the material is not geared toward children. The tour discusses enslavement and may not be appropriate for younger children; parental supervision is important.
Bring an umbrella for rain. On hot days, bring bottled water.
Meeting details
Cuban Creations Cigar Bar - 533 Toulouse St. (outside)
