A young Italian couple has been locked in an embrace for over 6,000 years.

In this medieval church, a centuries-old stuffed crocodile hangs from the ceiling.

Venice's "Island of the Mad."

Hanging within this medieval church are the bones of a beast allegedly slain by a fourth-century saint.

As can be expected from a centuries old church built in a canal city, the undercroft of this house of worship is beautifully flooded.

The marble facade hides a little-known medical museum with early surgical instruments and rare copies of canonical texts.

This palatial spiral staircase was so unusual the name "snail" was given to the noble family who built it.

The only museum with its curator—and her pets—buried inside.

A sinister pyramid in the Frari contains the heart of the famous neoclassical sculptor.

This peculiar Italian elevator runs both horizontally and vertically.

The famous sculptor left his mark on this Italian wall in an internationally protected example of street art.

Rome is now home to a stunning food museum and library.

This curious, round temple is the oldest still-standing marble building in Rome.

A fairy tale castle in modern Rome.

An alchemist's "magic door" stands in the middle of a Roman park.

This hidden Art Nouveau courtyard is an opulent feast for the eyes.

Vast network of air raid tunnels beneath Lombardy's capital.

Roman ruins top white travertine terraces formed by ancient hot springs.

Just across from the "Last Supper" painting is the famous painter's vineyard, a gift received for creating the masterpiece.

A Milanese café entirely designed by the American director Wes Anderson.

This giant middle finger statue sends an unambiguous message to Italy's bankers.

An ossuary built in 1210 to collect bones from the Ospedale Maggiore of Milan.