World Castles & palaces, Historical + People pictures

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance, with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacious homes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from its cliff. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

Sitting high upon the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a rustic tourist spot that offers visitors fantastic views. Centuries ago Roman emperors, Italian nobles and artists flocked to the province of Campania to soak in its inspiring beauty. Today, its cobblestone streets, magnificent villas, fishing ports, pleasant Mediterranean climate and citrus trees pull in holidaymakers from all over the world.

Pretty whitewashed houses overlooking an azure ocean: This is coastal Greece at its most charming and romantic, especially at sunset.

This iconic Parisian landmark commemorates one of Napoleon’s most famous victories and offers panoramic views from the top.

Delve into the heart of Argentina’s gaucho traditions and relax at Atlantic coast beaches in this region of low-lying, fertile grasslands. 

The incandescent blue and gold interior of Montreal’s spiritual heart dazzles visitors and pilgrims. It was once the largest house of worship in North America.

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, this historic city is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and one of the most important sites in indigenous Peruvian culture.

Experience fascinating ruins, bustling cities, magnificent landscapes, wild rivers and the Amazon jungle in the birthplace of the Inca Empire.

Admire the greatest works of Michelangelo and da Vinci, see the center of Catholicism and pose with the Leaning Tower of Pisa on this Mediterranean peninsula.

The diamond capital of the world is both historically rich and refreshingly modern, with 16th-century architecture and a thriving avant-garde arts scene.

Discover powerful ideas while exploring futuristic landscapes, diverse monuments and phenomenal Oscar Niemeyer constructions in Brazil’s dynamic Federal District. 

View a range of architectural styles and rare 16th-century artwork when you visit this stunning cathedral in Morelia\'s Central Plaza.

Discover the wilderness landscapes and crystal clear waters of the northwestern region of Western Australia. 

The island capital is a cosmopolitan center that retains its traditional Greek charm.

Classical architecture, the best pizzas and constant liveliness: Naples is still one of the most exciting Italian cities.

Visit one of Yucatan’s most impressive Mayan ruins, perched high on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.

Sample seafood in the quaint towns and cities of this diverse country where you can explore an eclectic terrain featuring mountains, desert regions and coastal wonderlands.

This 16th-century emperor’s garden tomb, commissioned nine years after the ruler’s death, is an early example of red sandstone and marble Mughal architecture.

Lyon’s crowning glory, this monumental church stands atop Fourvière hill and provides fabulous panoramas of the city.

The diamond capital of the world is both historically rich and refreshingly modern, with 16th-century architecture and a thriving avant-garde arts scene.