A map store filled with original Cold War era Russian maps of the world.

This celebration of Latvia’s freedom and independence avoided demolition over half a century of Soviet occupation.

The reconstruction of this prominent building fulfilled a long-written command.

Latvia's symbolic mountain-shaped national library is home to millions of cultural tomes.

Flamboyant architecture from the turn of 20th century.

The oldest housing complex in Riga is a mini timeline of architectural trends.

A former Latvian headquarters of the brutal KGB secret police is now open as a grim reminder of their atrocities.

3,000 market stands in five former Zeppelin hangars.

Plaques celebrating Lithuanian writers freckle a wall of this picture-perfect path.

This magnificent Art Deco church is a reflection of Lithuania’s turbulent history.

A 15-foot-tall statue of the head of the Sopranos family greets passengers at a train station in southeastern Lithuania.

While this monument tile is shrouded in mystery it also marks the end of the longest ever human chain.

Over time, this castle grew to encompass the entire island.

The oldest funicular in Lithuania has been climbing this steep hill since 1931.

Travelers who fall victim to this mermaid's charms are destined to stay in Užupis forever.

This micro-nation may be some sort of prank, but its constitution sure seems official.

This poignant tribute to the White Rose movement showcases artifacts related to the heroic anti-Nazi struggle.

This airport currywurst stand is made out of retro airplane parts.

Go surfing on this urban wave, "hacked" by local surfers.

These bronze pamphlets remember a remarkable group of Germans who fearlessly opposed the Nazis in the very center of their power.

The bridge that cost Germany a World Heritage Site.

This Dresden church was purposely rebuilt Protestant after being demolished in World War II.

The largest treasure hoard in Europe is contained in a castle that was bombed out during World War II.

The bones of the Biblical Magi traveled to Constantinople and Milan before landing in their current home inside an elaborate golden reliquary in the Cologne Cathedral.