One of the holiest Shi'i shrines in Iran honors the life and death of a learned noblewoman who became a saint.

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture

Marked by the hand of the explorer Henry Morton Stanley.

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

Named after a legendary garden called Eram in southern Arabia, built by order of Shaddad, an Arab king who wanted to compete with Paradise.

The fire inside this temple has burned for more than 1,500 years.

A dreamy mausoleum honors Persia's most famous poet.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.

The ancient necropolis houses the immense rock-cut tombs of four Persian kings.

Putrefaction plateaus in Iran, where the dead were sent for decontamination before going to their final resting place.

A spectacular rainbow of stained glass makes the "Pink Mosque" one of the most beautiful in Iran.

The palace of the King of Kings, burned by Alexander the Great.

A modern reimagining of a medieval city gate.

Old ships and machinery fill a historic harbor in the city that's home to Europe's largest port.

The compass on its front was a handy tool for 17th-century merchants who needed to know the direction of the wind.

The bronzed skull of a beheaded traitor was affixed to the city gate in the 17th century.

This narrow Ghent alleyway is an officially sanctioned street art tunnel.

Brussels' favorite peeing boy has a sister.

A hidden church in a hidden courtyard tells the story of the Miracle of Amsterdam.

The largest collection of handbags in the world, the oldest of which were used to carry Bibles, primarily by men.

A beautifully eclectic mix of architectural styles.

Cat art as far as the eye can see.

Abandoned for decades, trains still pass through the now-restored remains of one of Madrid's first metro stations.

Madrid's romantically ornate crystal palace has been offering shelter to plants and art for over a century.