The sunlight passing through the opening of this huge cave system creates a magical effect.

The oldest of Venice's plague quarantine stations, designed to keep the medieval city safe from disease.

A spiritual sanctuary in a natural cave.

The first botanical garden, a feather in the cap of the Grand Duke of Tuscany.

Roman politician Herodes Atticus built this nymphaeum to honor his wife, whom he may have murdered.

A volcanic old faithful, Stromboli has been erupting continuously for the last 2000 years.

Crumbling ruins of the thermal baths that once attracted royals and aristocrats from throughout Europe.

These hut foundations are believed to be the residence of Romulus, founder of Rome.

The ruins of an abbey believed to have been founded by Charlemagne in the 9th century.

Behind medieval walls in a corner of bustling Palermo is a breathtaking former mosque once inhabited by a wolf-taming hermit.

A stunning bridge that appears as if it's lunging to the shore, and has a legend of a devilish architect.

A fairytale-like medieval church perched atop a rocky cliff on Italy's "Coast of the Gods."

This park on the outskirts of Rome boasts two ancient Roman aqueducts and a medieval tower.

Eighteen mummies have stood guard behind the altar of this tiny church since 1833.

Artistic tombs, monuments, and a beautiful "Hall of Fame" lurk inside this cemetery.

The abandoned ruins of a failed resort hide on this verdant, picture-perfect island.

Also known as the Square Colosseum, this building is a prime example of fascist-era rationalist architecture.

A sulfuric hellscape in southern Italy.

This ancient altar emerges from the thick forests to reveal the mysteries of Etruscan sacrificial rituals.

A factory director designed what was the world's longest suspension footbridge in 1923 so his employees could get to work safely.

One of the most well-preserved castles in Italy also contains a rare medieval example of a port fortification.

The only remaining arch of the oldest stone bridge in Rome stands in the middle of the Tiber.

Beautiful views and Roman-style statues on the Italian coast.

Ham is serious business at the Prosciutto Museum-Serious, delicious business.