Netherlands

Dating from the early 14th century, this picturesque enclosed courtyard contains a Reformed Church and hidden Catholic chapel. It provides a serene oasis in the center of the city.

During WW II, eight people from three families lived together in this house in near total silence for more than two years. Visiting the rooms where Anne Frank hid is a moving experience that brings her writings to life.

Named for its location on high ground, the "Highlands Church" was founded in the 14th century. Although emptied of its art at the Reformation, its elegant architecture and tombstones are worth seeing.

The Rijksmuseum van Oudheden is the largest museum of antiquities in the Netherlands. The collection includes ancient Egyptian, Persian, Roman, medieval and other artifacts.

Designed in 1639 for a Protestant congregation, the Marekerk is a good example of Dutch Classicism.

This grand Ionic-style synagogue was built in 1665 by Sephardic Jews who had fled Spain and Portugal for tolerant Amsterdam. Still in active use, it is lit by large, low-hanging brass chandeliers.