Also known as the Square Colosseum, this building is a prime example of fascist-era rationalist architecture.

This beautiful park on the outskirts of Rome protects the ruins of two colossal ancient aqueducts.

The skull of the patron saint of lovers lies in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin—maybe.

This massive oak tree has ties to the first native tribes of the region and the founders of Texas.

A high-octane shrine to the greatest Texans who ever lived.

Turning night into day in Victorian-era Austin to thwart a serial killer.

Home to an endangered salamander, a full moon celebration, and a large spring-fed outdoor swimming pool.

Home to the largest urban bat colony in North America, estimated at 1.5 million bats.

Locals dubbed it the "Owl Building" because of its bird-like appearance.

This simple frog painting created by musician Daniel Johnston embodies the spirit of Austin.

The upstairs reading room is packed with millions of rare books, literary manuscripts, and historical treasures.

One of the oldest standing structures in Montgomery County, Maryland.

When it comes to handsignals (and colonialism) rock always beats scissors.

The only Civil War battle in Washington D.C. took place near this highest natural point in the city.

An easily overlooked memorial to a Ukrainian famine-genocide that killed over 4 million people.

A gorgeous mural outside a beloved D.C. restaurant pays homage to famous Black Americans.

A museum cafe showcases Native American dishes and indigenous ingredients from across the Western Hemisphere.

Home to a vast and influential collection of Shakespeareana.

The most decorated dog of World War I is preserved in the Smithsonian.

A three-story tower of books about Abraham Lincoln is one of the more unusual monuments to the president.

A girls' boarding school inspired by the Chicago World's Fair, once abandoned, now restored to strange and scenic glory.

A tribute to the beloved, kind-hearted "homeless mayor" of Silver Spring.

Baltimore's classic clock tower was once topped by a rotating, 20-ton medicine bottle.

A fortified medieval basilica on the Caelian Hill preserves extraordinary frescoes and one of Rome's most beautiful hidden cloisters.