USA

When silversmith Paul Revere rode to warn patriots of the British march to Lexington and Concord, he set out from his home on North Sq. This small clapboard house was built in 1680, making it the oldest house in Boston. The structure actually violated building codes of the day, which - in the wake of the fire of 1676 - required brick construction. Nonetheless, the house survived and has now been restored to its 17th-century appearance.

A self-guided tour through the house and courtyard gives a glimpse of what life was like for the Revere family (which included 16 children!). Also on display are some examples of his silversmith and engraving talents, as well as an impressive bell that was forged in his foundry. A joint ticket with entry to the Old State House and the Old South Meeting House is around 11.

The adjacent Pierce-Hichborn House, built in 1710, is a fine example of an English Renaissance brick house. It is also maintained by the Paul Revere Memorial Association, but you can visit it by guided tour (appointment only).