The hottest place on the planet.

Just in case you need some cold cash at the top of the world.

This famous archeological mystery may be an ancient example of movable type.

A minotaur, a labyrinth, and a dubious restoration pull in visitors from around the world.

A section of the long chain that blocked enemy ships from entering Constantinople.

This historic hotel preserves many treasures from its heyday hosting passengers on the Orient Express.

No one is sure if the world's fourth-largest diamond had been found in a rubbish heap or was pawned by Napoleon's mom.

This crucial gathering spot along the "hippie trail" still displays old notes between traveling beatniks and backpackers.

1513 Turkish world map, full of European state secrets and snarky commentary.

A gorgeous, Gaudí-esque stairway constructed in the city of Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family.

This remarkably well-preserved Egyptian plinth is pretty well traveled for a giant piece of stone.

A small etching on the white marble parapet was written in runic script by a Viking mercenary.

A marvel of Byzantine engineering under the streets of Istanbul.

The ornate miniature mansions were built for Istanbul's feathered residents.

These Egyptian statues have survived for 3,400 years and were an acoustic wonder of the ancient world.

A chaotic collection of coin-operated slot machines designed to delight and disturb in equal measure.

The oldest-known example of a historic architectural style recognized by UNESCO.

Southern Italy's spinning top village.

The oldest residential street in Europe also features an optical illusion.

A Turkish ghost town abandoned in a population exchange with Greece.

Roman ruins top white travertine terraces formed by ancient hot springs.

In this historic region, homes and churches are carved into ancient volcanic rock formations.

Where the White Nile River dramatically cascades between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert in Uganda.

A strangely forgotten claimant to the much contested title of "Source of the Nile."