No telescopes, no power, no gift shop: The Observatory of Chichen Itza, one of the world's oldest observatories, takes astronomy back to basics.

Every equinox this Maya pyramid puts on a spooky ancient light show.

Underwater art project will double as a massive artificial coral reef to help regenerate the damaged ecosystem.

Beach instrument turned bed and breakfast.

An island graveyard with spectacular views of the Caribbean.

A favorite with sightseers and locals alike, this Norwegian funicular provides easy access to a stunning view of Bergen and its environs.

The former home of Norway's greatest romantic composer.

A Viking-style brewpub named for a Norse sea giant, in the heart of fjord country.

One of the most breathtaking railways in Europe also takes one of the steepest climbs, from fjord to mountain plateau.

A stunning architectural yet functional feat, towering over Oslo.

Across the Pacific in a raft, a museum dedicated to Thor Heyerdahl's now legendary expedition.

One man's exploration of the human form, including the bizarre and delightful "Man Attacked by Babies."

In downtown Oslo, a menacing and terrifying relief clings to a church wall.

The design of this beautifully crafted building was inspired by Norwegian glaciers.

This floating sculpture of ice is a poignant reminder of nature's power.

Climbing Iceland's highest peak on the rim of the Oræfajökull volcano.

Iceland's largest lagoon is home to stunning multi-colored icebergs.

Twisted girders are all that remain of an Icelandic bridge that was wiped out by a combination of volcanic heat and glacial floods.

Cairns built to bring travelers good luck stretch across the land like miniature stone mountains.

Icelandic folklore says this giant boulder was ripped from the mountains and placed at its current location, where it became home to elves.

Along this wire fence, travelers have been leaving a particular memento since 2012.

This fantastical waterfall is hidden in a cave located in a cracked cliff.

Every summer local children form "pysja patrols" to save young birds that have wandered from their nests.

A modern Nordic Pompeii on the Icelandic island of Heimaey.