The magical, mossy forest that inspired Princess Mononoke.

This tangled English forest looks like something right out of a fairytale.

An enchanting monastery in the Spanish countryside appears lifted from a fantasy tale.

This dramatic landscape hidden on the Isle of Skye looks as though you've stepped into the magical realm.

A sophisticated astronomical tower built by one of the greatest Persian scholars of the Islamic Golden Age.

This unique museum doesn't shy away from highlighting Qatar's role in the history of slavery.

Robot jockeys ride their humped mounts to victory as part of a 21st-century twist on an ancient desert sport.

The enormous diamond-shaped building packs a trove of academic and literary treasures into one futuristic space.

These beautiful historic watchtowers were used for both scanning the desert for enemy invaders and observing the celestial world.

In this tiny Iranian town playing on the roof isn't just encouraged, it's the only place to go.

This remote British Imperial telegraph relay outpost drove men insane.

Salt cured mummies continue to turn up in this Iranian mine.

This centuries-old tree tells an unusual tale of vegetation and fertility in the desert.

Skyscraper powered by wind turbines attached between its towers.

An abandoned fishing village in pre-oil Qatar.

This vast, water-filled underground labyrinth can only be toured by boat.

Hydraulic systems in an ancient underground Iranian city.

Lived-in building, bedecked with an astonishing array of mirror mosaics.

Iran's colorful terraces are a rare geological masterpiece.

This circular Iranian jail was once a political prison run by the country's secret police.

Mirrors and glass shards cover every inch of this arrestingly beautiful mosque.

A 1,500-year-old, 3-story subterranean city where ancient Persians took refuge in times of war.

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.