The maze-like transportation hub contains abandoned areas, derelict stores, and a resident bat colony.

This daunting 1st century fortress was purportedly the site of one of the most dramatic revolts of the Jewish-Roman wars.

Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, this is one of the world's largest and oldest mosques.

One of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheaters is also one of the most unusual; it's made of black volcanic rock.

Only a handful of these gorgeous historic waterwheels remain but even those are in danger from local unrest.

Amid the rubble of Aleppo's Old Quarter, part of a historic market has been restored and re-opened.

One of the oldest and largest castles in the world.

A 1,500-year-old ghost settlement is slowly fading away.

Ruins of the Crusaders' headquarters.

Mysterious lost empire of the Silk Road.

This remote mountain shrine is one of the most sacred Zoroastrian temples remaining in the world.

The largest covered bazaar in the world.

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture

Long before air conditioning, Persian architects found an ingenious way to cool off.

This lake in northwest Iran has started turning from green to red more frequently than scientists are comfortable with.

This ancient burial site is believed to be one of the first earthquake-protected structures in the world.

Named after a legendary garden called Eram in southern Arabia, built by order of Shaddad, an Arab king who wanted to compete with Paradise.

A dreamy mausoleum honors Persia's most famous poet.

The fire inside this temple has burned for more than 1,500 years.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

These little castles each held thousands of pigeons.

Modern-day cave dwellers carve elaborate homes out of volcanic debris.

The ancient necropolis houses the immense rock-cut tombs of four Persian kings.