The best preserved Paleochristian basilica in Rome hides a number of oddities and secrets.

The skull of the patron saint of lovers lies in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin—maybe.

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

The yawning maw of this pagan visage is said to bite off the hands of liars.

St. Francesca Romana, patron saint of drivers, resides in the church she founded.

Legend has it that this bronze orb, which sat atop an ancient Egyptian obelisk, once held the ashes of Julius Caesar.

This large, circular tomb is the final resting place of the first emperor of Rome.

Breathtaking and huge 430 year old maps of Italy.

Historic fortifications form the boundary of Vatican City, but it’s not entirely surrounded by walls.

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

This breathtaking monastery was established by Saint Benedict himself 1,500 years ago.

What appears to be an ancient Roman temple is actually a Catholic church.

This bronze boar's snout has been rubbed to a golden sheen by visitors seeking good fortune.

A copy of the famous statue can be found in this Florence piazza, along with one of the most breathtaking views of the city below.

Next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a cemetery home to ancient sarcophagi and disturbing murals.

A striking memorial recalls thousands of Bolognese men and women killed fighting fascists in World War II.

Milan's duomo is covered in beautiful carving including a curious "dinosaur-like" beast.

This grisly effigy displays an early Christian martyr who was skinned alive and beheaded.

A fake medieval village in the middle of Turin.

The intricate geometry inside this Baroque-style dome was designed to create "terror of the human soul."

This building was designed to celebrate Italy's victory in World War I.

This cathedral hides a sculpted dog that determines your fate and an unexploded shell from World War II.

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

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