This historic recreationist school churns out warriors that may very well have had a fighting chance in Rome's pits of the day.

Geometry and mystery come together in an epic show of octagonal masonry.

An abandoned Roman salami factory has found new life as an art space home to 200 squatters.

A stunning cemetery famous for its extraordinarily delicate & lifelike mourning sculptures.

A mysterious chasm in the heart of the ancient Roman Forum, the Lacus Curtius was once believed to be a gateway to hell.

A Nesting Doll of Churches.

The location of the last witch trials of Italy, known as "The Salem of Europe."

Go inside to really appreciate this 500-year-old technological masterpiece.

This enchanting 600-year-old tree is so magical it inspired the beloved tale of Pinocchio.

The skull of the patron saint of lovers lies in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin—maybe.

This hidden Art Nouveau courtyard is an opulent feast for the eyes.

As can be expected from a centuries old church built in a canal city, the undercroft of this house of worship is beautifully flooded.

The underground sanctuary of a mysterious ancient cult.

Architectureal fantasy quarter of Rome.

A small island less than half a mile from Venice is a forbidden island with a dark and twisted past.

This Venice bookstore has resigned itself to constant flooding by keeping its books in bathtubs and boats.

An alchemist's "magic door" stands in the middle of a Roman park.

The most complete statue of this Aztec god sits a top a throne carved with images of hallucinogenic plants.

Ivy-covered Medieval tunnels cut through this charming town in France's Loire Valley.

Rare recess caves fill this unbelievably beautiful Ohio park.

A mysterious monument where a woman who records say never existed was burnt alive for being a witch.

Twelve hundred stone carvings guard this off-the-beaten-path Buddhist temple.

The remains of an abandoned dinosaur theme park litter the woods just off the highway.

It is locally loved and ridiculed for literally looking like poop.