A theatre built to house the rowdy Oxford graduation ceremonies became the stage for a debate about God's existence.

One of Europe's oldest libraries.

Oxford University's stateliest library seems designed to make students truly feel the weight of knowledge.

A cornucopia of gargoyles adorns the oldest portion of Oxford’s Magdalen College.

The fantastic charm of England's oldest botanical garden has made it a place of writerly inspiration for centuries.

The shop where the girl who inspired the beloved character once bought sweets is now a book-themed commercial curiosity.

The stoic structure boasts a whimsical set of stained glass art commemorating Lewis Carroll.

This restored eighth-century palace is a shining example of ancient Umayyad architecture.

This exceptionally well-preserved ancient marvel also houses a small museum dedicated to Jordanian folk tradition.

For centuries, Jeddah’s old town was a major trading port and a point of entry for Hajj pilgrims traveling by sea.

This bazaar is one of the oldest in the Arabian world.

This spectacular mosque houses the second-largest chandelier in the world.

This artificial archipelago was supposed to resemble a map of the world.

A preposterously luxurious hotel with gold-plated iPads, Rolls Royce chauffeurs, and a staff that trains by watching "Downton Abbey."

Is this amazing tableau depicting Gilgamesh and Enki 4,000 years old?

This beautifully historic Bahrain fortress might not be the most popular attraction around, but that might make it all the better.

This centuries-old tree tells an unusual tale of vegetation and fertility in the desert.

An annual two-week festival near the city of Riyadh when Saudis let their hair down.

Kuwait City's uniquely designed water towers look straight out of a retro sci-fi cityscape.

One of the oldest monasteries in the world is a key pilgrimage site for both Muslims and Christians.

Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, this is one of the world's largest and oldest mosques.

Overlooking the burial ground is a tower designed to prevent thieves from snatching the recently deceased.

The building where Mary, Queen of Scots was said to have bathed in white wine.

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