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

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

The eclectic home of a leading Turkish architect is a gorgeous piece of eye candy.

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

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

One of the largest wooden constructions in Europe was meant to be a casino, but soon became an orphanage.

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.

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

A sixth-century Byzantine cistern hidden below a modern carpet store.

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

An Art Nouveau gem hides beneath the layers of city grime obscuring this once-magnificent building.

The most metal church of all time was built in record time because of an international, pious pissing contest.

This museum was invented in a novel before being made real by the author.

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

Turkish adventurer antiques in the heart of the Grand Bazaar.

The ornate miniature mansions were built for Istanbul's feathered residents.

In the shadow of a former battleground, the resting place for nearly 2,000 soldiers who died in World War I.

This old, abandoned hotel offers magnificent views.

Also known as Napoleon's Canal, this waterway was created on the orders of the general, and construction was interrupted by Waterloo.

A jazz band formed by African water animals in the heart of Flemish Brabant.

Walk or bike along a narrow strip of Belgium sandwiched by German territory.

An abandoned swimming pool decays on the outskirts of Berlin.

The music is over at the Ballhaus Riviera Ballroom, but the ballroom remains in haunting disrepair.