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

Fantastic lake on the heart of a fault line.

This former Imperial summer home was the venue for a royal slap that once echoed 'round the world.

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

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.

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

Roman ruins, natural methane fires and a lovely beach.

Large miniature theme park with 100-plus models.

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

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

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

An Art Nouveau gem hides beneath the layers of city grime obscuring this once-magnificent building.

Ottoman-era houses lovingly preserved.

The best-preserved ancient theater in the world.

Step back in time and witness the fall of Constantinople.

A gorgeous, Gaudí-esque stairway constructed in the city of Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family.

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

Turkish adventurer antiques in the heart of the Grand Bazaar.

A Turkish ghost town abandoned in a population exchange with Greece.

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

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

This famous city eluded concrete detection until the early 2000's.

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

The ornate miniature mansions were built for Istanbul's feathered residents.