Architectural Oddities

Immortalized by artists, this church incorporates a medieval lighthouse into its shoreside structure.

What once sat in the world’s spotlight is today a largely disused ghost complex.

A palace destined to never house a king.

Built by crowdsourcing, this wooden foot bridge saved a part of Rotterdam that was languishing in wait of city funding.

This hilltop warren of monastic dwellings is the result of centuries worth of Mongol attacks.

This German art chapel is perfect for those who like their worship hard, modern, and utterly alien.

An 18th-century Spanish watchtower made entirely of seashell and concrete.

The Flatiron Building's storied West Coast cousin is a lot more into religion.

Sitting on an Italian hilltop is this surreal fortress built by the mad inventor of electrohomeopathy.

A Korean rock bassist's wild dream has become a reality at this completely insane boutique hotel.

Mysteriously stacked storefront paths give this medieval British town an iconic style like none other.

Built from oil field parts and resembling a teepee, this abandoned mid-century church is hoping for a comeback.

More sculpture than building, this architecturally significant temple was built on the spot of Saint Peter's crucifixion.

Public outcry led to this bridge's unique character which celebrates a giant frog battle and also sewing.

Quite possibly the last cross all humans will ever see.

Now an entertainment complex, the Lingotto building was once an avant-garde auto factory with a test track on the roof.