Named for a self-taught botanist who cataloged hundreds of native plants, this garden continues her work of preserving California plant life.

One poet's handmade, anachronistic home.

For almost 100 years, this site of peace and spirituality has existed on the California coast.

Hopeless romantics will swoon over the sweet story behind this bright and colorful home.

Behold the uncanny sight of the Golden Arches—rendered in black.

A monument completed by a Third Reich sculptor in 1935 in Ankara's central park encourages Turks to "be proud, work hard, and have trust."

One of the earliest Ataturk monuments commemorates the victory of the Turkish War of Independence.

This ancient subterranean megalopolis is known for the hot oil traps that were installed above each of its entrances.

A monument to the Turkish librarian who delivered books on the back of a donkey.

Live a night as a Byzantine King, with a minibar and private jacuzzi.

No one is sure if the world's fourth-largest diamond had been found in a rubbish heap or was pawned by Napoleon's mom.

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

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

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

A marvel of Byzantine engineering under the streets of Istanbul.

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

Ancient serpentine sacrifice holder that has stood the test of time.

A fountain standing as a testament to a doomed alliance.

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

Eat your way through history.

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

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

The remains of the medieval city walls that once protected the Genoese quarter of Constantinople

Taking the subway here means doing so over a bridge located in the middle of an estuary.