Though nicknamed the “Russian Freighter,” this ship was actually sunk off the coast of Pensacola by the U.S. government in a top-secret operation.

Ecuador’s historic seat of government has been quietly looted in recent decades, and no one knows how or by whom.

A short volcanic hill in Quito doubles as a stellar observation point of an iconic statue.

It took 160 years to complete the most ornate church in Ecuador.

Legend says if this neo-Gothic basilica is ever officially completed, the world will come to an end.

The world's tallest aluminum statue is also the world's tallest image of a winged Virgin Mary.

This 12-inch-tall wooden sculpture of a winged Virgin Mary has inspired much devotion and countless replicas.

Quito's historic, main square dates back to the 16th century.

The gondolas let you glimpse a bird's-eye view of one of the world's highest capital cities.

A monument to the conquistador became increasingly controversial in the very city that he founded.

Visiting dignitaries and Hollywood stars once stayed at this 1920s hotel, alongside ghosts that are said to haunt its corridors.

The mortal remains of an estimated 70,000 people lie in the basement of a monastery in Lima, Peru.

Now containing the bones of the actual conquistador, instead of someone else.

The giant pair of sexy legs sticking out the window of this costume store have become its main draw.

The last remaining relic of San Francisco's glittering 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition.

There is no trying to fall in love with this Star Wars fountain, you just do or do not.

This quaint museum in a long-running workshop is dedicated to a fixture in New Orleans lighting.

Colorful, cheeky signs spill out of legendary New Orleans folk artist Dr. Bob's Bywater studio warning you to "Be Nice—Or Leave."

This cathedral dedicated to Louis IX, sainted King of France, holds many secrets.

The first patented shaved-ice machine heralded a snowy wonderland of iced treats at a favorite New Orleans summer shack.

It's clear this abandoned Art Deco gem was no ordinary cleaners.

A prime example of New Orleans' unique architecture these early 20th century homes were built to look like steamboats.

This macabre shop, filled with art, oddities, and taxidermy is hidden in the heart of the French Quarter.

New Orleans' famous cemetery, located on the site of a former race track.