Places thanesiel Wants to Go

This mosaic-lined medieval church was built by the world's first admiral and still holds mass in ancient Greek.

The world's most active stratovolcano is almost always erupting.

The sinister ruins of one of the worst dam failures of the 20th century lie in this astonishing alpine setting.

An ancient artistic garden parlor full of hidden water wonders.

This magical-looking island is notorious for the misfortunes suffered by its owners.

The Roman Emperor's lost summer home and grotto full of enormous sculptures sit along the Italian seashore.

This Tuscan lake hides a 13th century town that is still visible when the water recedes.

The astonishing collection of an infamous criminologist.

Secret refuge and museum of the Duke of Florence.

Crossing this suspension bridge feels like walking through the sky, a fitting tribute to the head of the Apollo program.

The Sighignola summit on the Swiss border offers views so breathtaking it's been named one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Romans built the world's tallest artificial waterfall in 271 BC.

Dramatic sea stacks adorn the coast of this small village on the Adriatic coast.

More sculpture than building, this architecturally significant temple was built on the spot of Saint Peter's crucifixion.

Medieval town turned hippie commune, once home to the secret foreskin of Jesus Christ.

This medieval Italian town is a sheer (and beautiful) cliffside defense.

Eco-village hidden in the foothills of the Alps that created a massive system of psychedelic underground temples.

This palatial spiral staircase was so unusual the name "snail" was given to the noble family who built it.

A fairytale island floats in the middle of Italy's little-known Lake Orta.

A Nesting Doll of Churches.

Filled with goldfish swimming in a shallow pool of sea water, this ancient crypt is more wishing well than burial site.

The location of the last witch trials of Italy, known as "The Salem of Europe."

David Sedaris called it "The greatest shop in the world."

Go inside to really appreciate this 500-year-old technological masterpiece.