The birthplace of the ferocious William the Conqueror, this castle is awash in medieval history.

Bits of architecture from a town destroyed in World War I now decorate this hotel garden.

A French library that makes sure its love of books is writ large... giant in fact.

A quaint medieval millhouse hovers surprisingly above the waters of the Seine.

The post-apocalyptic remnants of a bucolic town ruined by a plane crash.

A centuries-old complex of hand-dug stone chambers has sheltered locals in times of trouble.

Nicknamed the "Museum of Horrors," this French anatomical collection has been fascinating visitors for over a century.

One of the largest ochre quarries in the world, hidden in a limestone landscape.

This futuristic observatory at the top of the Pyrénées offers unrivaled views.

This ancient theater was once the home of fierce gladiatorial battles.

The 16th-century church was kept in its ruined state as a reminder of the casualties of World War I.

The deserted pirate-themed restaurant still entices explorers.

The world's tallest bridge is also possibly the most elegant.

A tiled, multi-level garden of survival in Lyon.

A chapel on a volcanic core, marking the end of a successful journey.

An ancient monastery, a locked room, and a mysterious book heist.

A self-built mosaic house and sculpture park.

There has been an astronomical clock on this spot since the 14th century.

A museum which takes visitors to the côté obscure of Paris.

A medieval church with largest and oldest collection of Renaissance frescoes in France.

Former hunting lodge of a duke who was an avid collector of impressionist works.

This recessed garden protects thousands of mountain plants by creating its own microclimates.

Since ancient times these picturesque springs have been providing bathers with healing waters.

Museum in a swimming pool where the water still flows.