A striking symbol of the Bulgarian capital.

A Bulgarian monument to Russia's role in World War II is constantly being painted in pop culture protest.

A vast Communist-era exhibition space in the Bulgarian capital.

This historic black and white monastery is one of Bulgaria's architectural jewels.

A decaying, yet still functioning, work of communist architecture.

A gigantic statue of a Russian soldier watches over the ancient city of Plovdiv, a prominent reminder of the Soviet period in Bulgaria.

This ancient theater, restored in the 20th century, lives on as a venue for dramatic and musical performances.

An homage to the medieval rulers of Bulgaria.

Rebuilt several decades ago, its striking murals prevent it from being reconsecrated as a church.

This memorial to the victims of the Romanian Revolution of 1989 is often compared to a potato on a skewer.

This communist behemoth is the heaviest building in the world and a legacy of a brutal regime.

At less than four inches in height, this iconic fictional character is the smallest public statue in all of Moldova.

This 13th century Orthodox monastery is built right into the Moldovan cliffside.

This sign marks the entrance to a tiny proto-state within the small country of Moldova.

A collection of items from a way of life that no longer exists.

This fairy-tale castle would make Dracula (who is said to have been imprisoned there) jealous.

Visit an imposing 13th-century Transylvanian citadel lurking not far from the region's more heavily touristed attractions.

Romania's "Red Ravine" is a little-known natural wonder that bears a resemblance to the Grand Canyon.

Something's watching you.

This snug medieval lane is one of the narrowest streets in the world.

A fire once nearly devoured this gorgeous 14th-century Gothic cathedral.

The European towns of Brașov and Râșnov each have proud signs reminiscent of the Hollywood sign.

This elaborately decorated, fairytale-like Romanian royal palace is one of the most striking castles in Europe.

The possible imprisonment of Vlad the Impaler here earned the medieval castle its nickname, "Dracula's Castle."