Perched above the bustling town of Kerak is a sprawling, ruinous castle that has witnessed nearly a millennia of Levantine history.

The world's oldest map of the holy land gives us a fragmented glimpse of the layout of biblical nations.

An oasis of shade and color amidst the bustle of the old city.

This exceptionally well-preserved ancient marvel also houses a small museum dedicated to Jordanian folk tradition.

Amid the rubble of Aleppo's Old Quarter, part of a historic market has been restored and re-opened.

One of the oldest and largest castles in the world.

Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, this is one of the world's largest and oldest mosques.

3D war panorama in Damascus built with help from North Korea.

Celebrated as a center of civilization, the remains of the ancient city have been nearly destroyed by greed, egoism, and war.

Iran's "Rose Garden Palace," built during 131 years of rule by Qajar kings, consists of 17 stunning structures.

This lake in northwest Iran has started turning from green to red more frequently than scientists are comfortable with.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.

Despite a history of destruction, this former citadel survives to document Afghanistan's oft overlooked history.

The vertical-axis windmills of ancient Persia have been grinding flour for 1,000 years and counting.

Long before air conditioning, Persian architects found an ingenious way to cool off.

The fire inside this temple has burned for more than 1,500 years.

The hottest, driest, and most scenic desert on Earth.

Colorful mineral deposits turn these mountains into an Impressionist fantasy.

The largest covered bazaar in the world.

At the heart of an otherwise bustling city lies some oddly abandoned and ignored historical ruins.

The legendary fortress of a female Kurdish warrior leader.

An ancient fortified mound raised over the millennia from settlements built one on top of the other.

A dreamy mausoleum honors Persia's most famous poet.

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture