This magical-looking island is notorious for the misfortunes suffered by its owners.

Medieval town turned hippie commune, once home to the secret foreskin of Jesus Christ.

A fairytale island floats in the middle of Italy's little-known Lake Orta.

This shining multicolored metro station deep under Naples is said to be the most beautiful in Europe.

The Pope’s secret escape route.

This palatial spiral staircase was so unusual the name "snail" was given to the noble family who built it.

Filled with goldfish swimming in a shallow pool of sea water, this ancient crypt is more wishing well than burial site.

One of the world’s smallest bars, just 13 square feet, is brimming with speakeasy flair.

Pilgrimage site for star-crossed lovers.

A Milanese café entirely designed by the American director Wes Anderson.

Crushed coral and crystals give the sand its signature coloration.

Ruins of a 10th century church tucked away deep in a botanical garden.

This centuries-old Italian chapel hangs midway down a sheer cliffside.

This 16th-century monastery has been turned into a surrealist architecture compound.

This giant middle finger statue sends an unambiguous message to Italy's bankers.

The once forbidden "secret cabinet" of erotic art from excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

A labyrinth of ancient tunnels hidden below the city holds the ruins of 2,500 years of history.

This beautiful park on the outskirts of Rome protects the ruins of two colossal ancient aqueducts.