The water-powered carriages are long gone, but for over a century this funicular railway has been the fastest route to the highest point in Paris.

Paris' linguistic guide to the international language of, yes, love.

In the past, Renaissance sex workers were encouraged to entice customers on this bridge.

Venice's island of the dead.

According to tradition this is the oldest church in Venice, but its actual age is a mystery.

This Venice bookstore has resigned itself to constant flooding by keeping its books in bathtubs and boats.

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

Two stone columns flank the grand Venice square, but there were supposed to be three.

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

This deconsecrated church has seen many uses, from a tobacco storehouse to a cinema.

100 year tradition of fist fights, marked by marble footsteps.

Where Venice's gondolas go for a tune-up.

Also known as the Square Colosseum, this building is a prime example of fascist-era rationalist architecture.

The best preserved Paleochristian basilica in Rome hides a number of oddities and secrets.

The only "Egyptian" pyramid in Europe and the legendary tomb of Remus.

The crypts of Capuchin friars decorated with the bones of over 4,000 friars, including an entire "crypt of pelvises."

This Paris art space celebrates the creativity and ingenuity that springs from abject poverty, especially in Africa.

This Parisian café sticks almost exclusively to an ethos of reuse.

An iconic and eccentric bar for "Manouche" Jazz music keeps expanding its space—and its influence.

This hidden Art Nouveau courtyard is an opulent feast for the eyes.

Architectural monsters are devouring this palace's every door and window.