These ruins once flourished as the capital of the Lydian kingdom, often credited with the invention of metal coinage.

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

This crumbling medieval basilica once attracted pilgrims by the thousands to collect a miraculous dust that formed above the saint's tomb.

A surprising and unconventional mosque hidden in the subsoil of Istanbul.

Quite possibly the oldest love poem known to humankind.

This half-forgotten fortress was constructed by the Ottoman conqueror of Constantinople.

A beautiful 19th-century Armenian mansion is preserved above an unassuming cafe.

This ancient abandoned church in a remote part of Turkey is in danger of falling over.

This hidden gem is bathed in beautiful natural light.

This mysterious cliffside carving of an ancient Hittite deity has baffled scholars for centuries.

This former Imperial summer home was the venue for a royal slap that once echoed 'round the world.

This ancient city - home to nine civilizations - is soon to be buried under 200 feet of water.

Seven early Christians were sealed into a cave where legend has it they slept unharmed for centuries.

This ancient subterranean megalopolis is known for the hot oil traps that were installed above each of its entrances.

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

A mysterious ancient cemetery with Roman sarcophagi and Lycian inscriptions.

This Turkish cave boasts some rather bizarre associations with the King of Mount Olympus.

A fountain standing as a testament to a doomed alliance.

The alleged house of the Virgin Mary is tucked away in a park and nature preserve on Mt. Koressos in Turkey and is holy to both Catholics and Muslims alike.

The ancient abodes are a testament to human ingenuity amid harsh climates.

Mausoleum and Holy Seat of Antiochus I of Commagene.

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

The best-preserved ancient theater in the world.

The largest Neolithic ruins in the world hide a notably clean prehistoric metropolis.