Places Edited by Samantha Chong

This cave system allegedly holds the "metallic library" of a lost ancient civilization.

A "Bugseum" dedicated to all things insect-related resides behind a pest control company.

A breathtaking and biodiverse wilderness in the mountain setting of Ernest Hemingway's "For Whom the Bell Tolls."

A small island dotted with old, historic Finnish buildings.

This peaceful gem in upstate New York was chosen as the future home of the 14th Dalai Lama's Library and Museum.

This unusual lava tube spouts seawater during high surf.

This park feels like a lush little jungle full of wildlife nestled within São Paulo.

The remains of this rugged homestead ranch offer a brief glimpse into a bygone era.

A stunning mosque owes its design to an Ottoman ruler nicknamed "the Butcher."

Situated on a sacred Inca site, this 16th-century cathedral took nearly 100 years to build.

In the summer, the area around this sculpture transforms into a vibrant concert venue.

The portrait of a man from Japan who sent weekly letters to a Dutch hotel he never visited.

Africa's fourth longest river originates from a burbling spring in a secluded stretch of woods.

This enormous 32-foot painting depicts Poland's greatest medieval battle in glorious detail.

This quirky shop on a former farm is full of weird and wonderful oddities and antiques.

This historic fort overlooks Montevideo and appears on Uruguay’s coat of arms.

Legend says if this neo-Gothic basilica is ever officially completed, the world will come to an end.

The "Mother Temple of the Pacific Islands" stands at the center of 20 acres of lush, tropical prayer gardens.

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

This baroque palace displays an impressive collection of taxidermy, art, and rare objects from the days of courtly hunting.

This Roman amphitheatre was also the location of the first gladiator school.

A strangely curved lamppost stands tall over this avenue in Rotterdam.

Roses and other fascinating flora fill this garden built to commemorate Britain's immortal Bard.

The haunting beauty of this little-visited wreck makes it a true hidden treasure.