Remnants of the 16th-century defensive wall still stand unassumingly within Edinburgh.

This early version of the guillotine was used to execute the man responsible for its construction.

This alley off Edinburgh's Royal Mile contains remnants of the city's seedier history.

This otherwise ordinary close on the Royal Mile constituted the end of the world for Edinburgh’s poorest residents.

Now home to a drinking establishment, this building has a macabre history.

Sprawled across the Great Hall ceiling are various constellations and images relating to the zodiac.

A statue in the heart of Edinburgh honors a bear that served in the Polish military during World War II.

A sweet symbol marks the place where torturous executions were once carried out.

This 16th-century house tells the city's history through old artifacts and quirky tales.

A verdant 17th-century-style garden hidden along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

The taxidermy remains of the first mammal ever cloned from an adult cell are on display in Edinburgh.

Summer in Scotland begins with a spectacularly wild and colorful event rooted in ancient pagan traditions.

There are plenty of wonderful panoramic vistas in Edinburgh, but not many are hidden smack in the middle of the Old Town.

A 18th century graveyard and its astonishing cortege of macabre iconography.

Near the former site of numerous witch burnings, this lavish Edinburgh mainstay pays homage to Scotland's brutal history.

360° views of the city plus five floors of optical illusions and hands-on science.

Ruined 11th century abbey built by King David I in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The ruins of the largest gladiatorial school in Rome are largely hidden under modern streets.

This ancient market is often referred to as the oldest shopping mall in the world.

In the past, Renaissance sex workers were encouraged to entice customers on this bridge.

Where Venice's gondolas go for a tune-up.

Two stone columns flank the grand Venice square, but there were supposed to be three.

Thousand-year-old Viking runes adorn an ancient Greek lion at the entrance to the Venetian Arsenal.

Those who own or stay at this 500-year-old, allegedly cursed house often meet terrible fates.