Windhoek is often described as a city with a 'continental' atmasphere. This can be ascribed to its architecture - historical buildings dating back to German colonial rule - as well as to its cuisine, culture, dress codes and educational institutions. At the same time Windhoek has the colour, sounds and tempo of a modern African city. Pavement displays of African drums and woodcarvings from the north contrast with elegant shops offering sophisticated Swakara garments and Namibian gemstones set in individually designed pieces of jewellery. While some shops display clothing, silver and glassware imported from Europe, otherns stock casual and colourful garments from West Africa.