A tiny park in the middle of some big power politics.

A meow-velous tribute to a beloved street cat, made famous on the internet.

A section of the long chain that blocked enemy ships from entering Constantinople.

This column celebrates Rome's victory over the Goths, and may be the oldest Roman monument in Istanbul.

The home-turned-museum of Barış Manço, the mustachioed Turkish Elvis for children.

One of the largest wooden constructions in Europe was meant to be a casino, but soon became an orphanage.

A sixth-century Byzantine cistern hidden below a modern carpet store.

This crucial gathering spot along the "hippie trail" still displays old notes between traveling beatniks and backpackers.

The legendary luxury train passage is commemorated with a charming museum inside its former eastern terminus.

Legend says if you stick your thumb in the hole and it gets wet, your wish will be granted.

The most metal church of all time was built in record time because of an international, pious pissing contest.

Step back in time and witness the fall of Constantinople.

This museum was invented in a novel before being made real by the author.

1513 Turkish world map, full of European state secrets and snarky commentary.

A small etching on the white marble parapet was written in runic script by a Viking mercenary.

This remarkably well-preserved Egyptian plinth is pretty well traveled for a giant piece of stone.

Turkish adventurer antiques in the heart of the Grand Bazaar.

Five sultans and their families rest in eternal splendor, teeming with overlooked beauty and drama.

A marvel of Byzantine engineering under the streets of Istanbul.

Standing atop 2nd-century Roman ruins, this church is one of the oldest and most iconic in Old Cairo.

A huge museum of much more than just agriculture displayed in a princess's palace.

A strange aquarium with stuffed fish, and almost no water for them to swim in.

Hundreds of thousands of ancient documents offer a unique glimpse into Jewish life in Cairo.

A preserved oasis with traditional Andalusian-style architecture and beautiful views of the Nile.