World Heritage Sites

Originally built in 1130, the picturesque Edinburgh Castle overlooks the city of Edinburgh from its rocky perch in the Old Town.

Commissioned by Charlemagne in 786, this is the oldest cathedral in Northern Europe. A graceful Gothic choir was added to the Carolingian core in the 15th century. Inside are several major relics and early medieval artworks.

A series of 29 Buddhist cave temples dating from as early as the 2nd century BCE, the Ajanta Caves contain some of the greatest masterpieces of Buddhist art in India.

Built 1093-1133, Durham Cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England.

Just south of the modern city of Agrigento in southwest Sicily is the Valley of the Temples, an archaeological site with no less than eight ancient Greek temples.

This historic temple in Lhasa is the holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism. It houses a venerated Buddha statue and has been a major pilgrimage destination for centuries.

Constructed around 2500 BCE, Avebury is the largest prehistoric stone circle in Britain. Along with its ancient mysteries, it offers a pleasant setting amidst a tranquil village and green fields.

Founded in 1345 by St. Sergius and containing his relics, this is the most important monastery in Russia and the spiritual center of Russian Orthodox Christianity.

The Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família is a magnificent basilica designed by celebrated Art Nouveau architect Antoni Gaudi. It remains unfinished, with estimated completion in 2026.

Housing the tomb of St. Francis and filled with spectacular medieval frescoes by Giotto, this church is Assisi's crowning glory. It is a major place of pilgrimage for St. Francis devotees and art lovers alike.

On the door of this church in 1517, Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses against the sale of indulgences and launched the Reformation. The church contains the tombs of Luther, Melanchthon and Frederick the Wise.