The oldest church in Iceland is one of the few to feature ornate decoration.

This black church sits alone among a field of lava rock.

If a glacial river suddenly diving into a sheer chasm via a dramatic, multi-stage waterfall isn't peak Iceland, it's certainly close.

This beautiful, historic church looks like something out of a simpler past.

The picturesque birthplace of Icelandic democracy is drenched in the blood of its brutal past.

Two volcanic lakes in an enormous crater formed in a prehistoric eruption.

This tumultuous Icelandic lava field looks so alien European researchers want to use it as a stand-in for Mars.

This hobbit-y little hot spring may be the oldest spring used by humans in all of Iceland.

These ominous lava formations were said to be an entrance to the netherworld so of course they inspired a famous metal band.

This valley of hot springs and boiling mud pots is home to the record-holding "Geysir," which originated the English word.

The most powerful waterfall in all of Europe.

This elegant arc of a waterfall marks a religious turning point.

Iceland's largest lagoon is home to stunning multi-colored icebergs.

This volcanic cave lake is essentially hard proof that Iceland is the most magical place on Earth.

The unique waterfall in Iceland's south features a backdrop of geometric black lava columns.

Medicinal spa created with the discharge from a geothermal energy plant.

Puffin enthusiasts flock to Europe's largest seabird cliff, which over one million birds call home.

The fairy tale castle of the "fairy-tale king."

Bridge that died in war and was resurected.

Thousands of exquisitely carved stone water storage wells, hundreds of stone steps fill this exquisite medieval stepwell.

Gargantuan home of Russian science.

The tallest hotel in Europe.

A Gothic cathedral created from volcanic rocks.

A king's pet, a pope's gift, an artist's inspiration, and a tragic shipwreck.