Remnants of the 16th-century defensive wall still stand unassumingly within Edinburgh.

The most loyal of little dogs, or a Victorian era publicity stunt?

This otherwise ordinary close on the Royal Mile constituted the end of the world for Edinburgh’s poorest residents.

Overlooked by many, the two famous Scottish warriors guard the main gate of Edinburgh Castle.

Protecting the dead from opportunistic body snatchers.

The final resting place of soldiers' loyal canine companions.

A statue in the heart of Edinburgh honors a bear that served in the Polish military during World War II.

A sweet symbol marks the place where torturous executions were once carried out.

The taxidermy remains of the first mammal ever cloned from an adult cell are on display in Edinburgh.

A book bound in the skin of an infamous criminal, along with countless other specimens.

A 18th century graveyard and its astonishing cortege of macabre iconography.

The fountain marks the area where hundreds of accused witches were burned at the stake.

One of the oldest scientific gardens in Britain, containing more than 13,302 plant species in its core collection.

Ruined 11th century abbey built by King David I in Edinburgh, Scotland.

This 17th-century street hidden beneath Edinburgh was once a breeding ground for the black death.

An incredibly well-preserved piece of ninth-century Viking poop.

The little-known second castle that William the Conqueror built in York.

The National Railway Museum in York is the largest railway museum in the world, attracting almost 1 million visitors per year.

One of the shortest streets in York has an especially odd name.

This network of narrow, medieval passages has the most delightful name.

A century-old tradition has culminated in a small but singular collection of feline effigies.

Follow the original medieval paths that wind through this intriguing section of the city.

In downtown Oslo, a menacing and terrifying relief clings to a church wall.

This floating sculpture of ice is a poignant reminder of nature's power.