Over the centuries, this island paradise has done it all, from providing monks with ecclesiastical respite to sheltering an exiled Leon Trotsky.

Climb a steep hill in 90 seconds on the second-oldest urban subway in the world.

This column celebrates Rome's victory over the Goths, and may be the oldest Roman monument in Istanbul.

No one is sure if the world's fourth-largest diamond had been found in a rubbish heap or was pawned by Napoleon's mom.

1513 Turkish world map, full of European state secrets and snarky commentary.

A section of the long chain that blocked enemy ships from entering Constantinople.

Five sultans and their families rest in eternal splendor, teeming with overlooked beauty and drama.

Legend says if you stick your thumb in the hole and it gets wet your wish will be granted.

A small etching on the white marble parapet was written in runic script by a Viking mercenary.

This crucial gathering spot along the "hippie trail" still displays old notes between traveling beatniks and backpackers.

A fountain standing as a testament to a doomed alliance.

This remarkably well-preserved Egyptian plinth is pretty well traveled for a giant piece of stone.

Ancient serpentine sacrifice holder that has stood the test of time.

Turkish adventurer antiques in the heart of the Grand Bazaar.

Step back in time and witness the fall of Constantinople.

Climb a set of vertiginous stone steps to the top of this impressive ancient edifice.

This eatery re-creates dishes from the Ottoman Empire so you can dine like a sultan.

Have tea in a cemetery with a dazzling view of Istanbul.

A gorgeous, Gaudí-esque stairway constructed in the city of Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family.

A marvel of Byzantine engineering under the streets of Istanbul.

The facade of this bank has changed little over the centuries, including its unique welcome sign.

This large copper bolt represents the benchmark for measuring sea levels in most of Europe.

The former home of a mad diplomat is said to still be marked in bloody, arcane scrawls.

A public urinal so pretty, it was declared a national monument.