A comic duo from this city hoped to shake up an uninspring music contest by harking back to a more idealistic era. Photograph: CorbisIts long history has included invasions, explorations and revolutions, and the signing of a still-controversial treaty. Photograph: Getty Images/Visuals UnlimitedSomeone special grew up nearby and studied here, but made his mark in other places. Name the city.Photograph: AlamyThis week’s winner will receive a £150 voucher from Hotels.com which can be used at more than 120,000 places to stay across the world, from quirky B&Bs and family bolt holes to boutique hotels. Hotels.com customers can get a night free for every 10 stayed with its rewards scheme. Email your answer by Thursday 19 May to viewfinder@observer.co.uk or send a postcard, with address and phone number, to Viewfinder, The Observer, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU.
■ Last week’s answer was Guangzhou (formerly Canton), China. The winner was Patricia Thirgood, of EnniskillenPhotograph: Alamy