It all started in 1978 with the original list of 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and today there are more than 1,100 places around the globe designated for their scientific, cultural, or historical value. Chances are, you’ve heard of UNESCO sites such as the Taj Mahal, Vatican City, and the Statue of Liberty, but there are many places that don’t receive as much recognition. Check out these five lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites you should visit. 

Cueva de Las Manos – Argentina

The name of Cueva de las Manos translates literally to “cave of hands” and refers to the thousands of curious handprints that line the walls of this cave in Río Pinturas, in the southern region of Argentina. While the cave is named for the palms that adorn the interior stone, visitors can also find paintings of birds, pumas, and other animal creatures throughout the caves. The cave’s paintings — made of natural elements like iron oxide and manganese — represent the culture of the area, which was last inhabited around 70 CE. The origins of the cave date back somewhere between 9,300 and 1,300 years ago, and the prints are remarkably well-kept considering their age.

The site was chosen as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 since it “bears witness to the culture of the earliest human societies in South America.” Local groups have taken considerable efforts to preserve the caves and recognize their value as an important archaeological site. The caves are open to the public and provide a one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re planning a trip, a guided tour will give you the greatest understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the site.

Kizhi Pogost – Russia

While Kizhi Pogost doesn’t have the same bold colors or global recognition as the striking St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, the intricate attention to detail on the structure is just as mesmerizing. Located in the Republic of Karelia, Russia, Kizhi Pogost consists of the Church of Transfiguration and the Church of Intercession. The buildings are built entirely of wood without the use of a single nail.

Kizhi Pogost is located along the peaceful Lake Onega and earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1990 as an exceptional example of Russian architecture. The churches were not the first buildings to be constructed on the island and the original buildings burned down in the late 1600s. The Church of Intercession and The Church of Transfiguration were subsequently built on the island several decades later. Today, the buildings serve as an open-air museum and are accessible by ferry. If you plan to visit, be sure to allow enough time during the day as overnight stays are not allowed.

Episcopal City of Albi – France

The Episcopal City of Albi is a remarkably preserved example of medieval architecture. The city is located on the Tarn river and dates back to the 10th century. A visit to the city is like being transported back to a different time. The city joined the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010 as an example of early architecture and early development.

The Episcopal Palace and Saint Cecilia’s Cathedral are the most recognizable and imposing structures in the city, but the Berbie Palace, the Castelviel, and the village of Saint-Salvi are equally as mesmerizing. The Episcopal City of Albi attracts more than a million visitors annually and is open year-round. If you’re visiting France, consider adding this piece of history to your itinerary.

Agra Fort – India

The Taj Mahal might be India’s most recognizable structure, but Agra Fort, which is located just outside the gardens of the mausoleum is just as demanding of your attention. The fort was the primary residence for the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. The Government of Uttar Pradesh considers the fort a walled city. Within the city, you can find prominent landmarks such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, as well as two mosques.

The red sandstone structure is an extraordinary example of Mughal architecture. Built in the early 1600s, the site is still open to the public. Though the fort originally had four gates, two have since been walled up. Visitors can only access the fort through the Amar Singh Gate. Agra Fort is located approximately 125 miles south of Delhi. If you are visiting the area to see the Taj Mahal, you really should consider adding a visit to Agra Fort.

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve – Madagascar

The Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is a behemoth of a natural wonder that doesn’t get enough attention. The reserve, which is located in central Madagascar, features towering, natural limestone structures that UNESCO describes as limestone needles.

The name Tsingy translates to “walking on tiptoes.” An aerial view of the area shows just how powerful these natural structures are and why the name so aptly fits. The enormous structures date back nearly 200 million years and are thought to be the result of heavy rainfall. The site joined the UNESCO list in 1990 as a unique and rare phenomenon in addition to being the home to several species of rare flora and fauna.

Most guides recommend at least two to three days to fully experience the area. Tours are available and highly recommended. Plan carefully as the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is only open during the Madagascar dry season, which runs from April through November. Grand Tsingy is open from June to November.

Around the globe, there are sacred sites and pilgrimage trails that hold profound significance for particular cultures and religions. From the 1,000-year-old Camino de Santiago of Spain to the “Wailing Wall” of Israel and Mecca, Saudi Arabia — the birthplace of Islam — these places have drawn countless visitors over the years. For those who wish to journey in search of a higher sense of purpose, walking in the footsteps of pilgrims throughout history can be an enlightening way to travel. Check out these 17 sacred pilgrimage sites and the fascinating stories behind them.

Lourdes, France

Located in the foothills of the Pyrenees, the French city of Lourdes has been a pilgrimage site for Catholics since the 19th century. As the story goes, St. Bernadette was collecting firewood near a grotto when she witnessed several visions of the Virgin Mary, who told her to build a chapel on the site. Since then, a magnificent cathedral has been erected near the grotto, which is believed to contain healing waters that induce miracles.

To receive the grotto’s healing powers, pilgrims can fill up jugs of the holy water or immerse themselves in the water entirely. The site is also home to the Marian Procession, a celebration that brings believers and the infirm together for a joint blessing from a priest.

Kumano Kodo, Japan

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kumano Kodo is a pilgrimage through the mountains in the Japanese region of Kansai, consisting of a network of ancient routes once used by emperors. All five routes connect at Hongū Taisha, a sacred Shinto shrine in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture. Since the trails link to two other significant shrines, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha, Kumano Kodo draws pilgrims from across Japan.

The most popular pilgrimage route is Nakahechi, a 10-mile trek known for its ease and accessibility. To make the spiritual journey, Kumano Kodo pilgrims need not rough it; the trail system has plenty of guesthouses for overnight stays along the way.

Camino de Santiago, Spain

The ancient pilgrim routes in this network across Europe all lead to the same place — the tomb of St. James in northwestern Spain. Also known as the “Way of St. James,” the Camino de Santiago has over a dozen trails to choose from and attracts hundreds of thousands of trekkers annually.

Of these trails, the Camino Francés (French Way) is the most popular, starting in the town of St. Jean-Pied-du-Port, France, and following a fairly flat traverse for 478 miles before ending in the city of Santiago de Compostela. As a bonus, the original route preferred by pilgrims traveling to the tomb is an optional detour along the way in the city of Oviedo. Before starting the journey, all pilgrims should request a credential, which serves as a passport and allows free stays in hostels along the way.

Via Francigena, Italy

They say all roads lead to Rome, and in the case of Via Francigena, the adage proves true. The 1,200-mile-long medieval trail once led pilgrims from Canterbury to Rome, with routes through France and present-day Switzerland. Today, the trail is a popular way for travelers to see Europe on foot, especially in Tuscany, where Via Francigena leads travelers through swaths of sunflowers and acres of olive groves. This Tuscan portion of Via Francigena is divided into 15 sections, starting at Cisa and ending at Aquapendente; sections vary in length and difficulty and can be enjoyed for a day’s walk or a multi-day journey.

Western Wall, Israel

The Western Wall, also known as the “Wailing Wall,” is an important pilgrimage site for people of the Jewish faith. Originally built by King Herod in 20 BCE, the wall survived a Roman attack and has since become a sacred place for Jewish people.

As a symbol of the Temple of God, the wall is visited by thousands of people annually, who recite prayers, which are either spoken aloud or written on paper and placed into the wall’s cracks. In 2010, the oldest piece of writing in Jerusalem was found in the wall — a 3,350-year-old prayer — demonstrating how long this pilgrimage tradition has been upheld.

Sri Pada, Sri Lanka

Pilgrims have been climbing Sri Pada (also known as Adam’s Peak) since the fourth century, with kings, scholars, and even Marco Polo himself making the strenuous journey to the top of the Sri Lankan mountain. The summit of the 7,359-foot-tall peak is home to a gold-painted pavilion that houses two bells — pilgrims ring one of the bells in accordance with how many times they have completed the journey.

Considered holy by people of Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu faith, Sri Pada has a pilgrimage season starting in December and ending in May, with most hikers making the journey in the dark for a clear view at dawn. During high season, the trail is lined with locals selling refreshments to weary travelers en route.

Wittenberg, Germany

In addition to being a charming medieval town in Germany, Wittenberg is a sought-after destination for people of the Lutheran faith. As the city where Martin Luther began his own branch of Protestantism, Wittenberg attracts pilgrims from around the world, who wish to see the sacred Lutheran sites scattered throughout the village.

These sites include Castle Church, where Luther posted his reformation beliefs in a book entitled 95 Theses, in addition to City Church, the site where Luther preached about his reformations. (It was also where he was married and baptized his own six children.) The pilgrimage often includes a visit to the house where Luther lived with his family, which is well-preserved and contains many of his old books and writings.

Mount Kailash, Tibet

Although it’s one of the holier pilgrimage sites, few make the journey up Mount Kailash, a 22,000-foot-tall mountain in Tibet. It is considered sacred by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Bonists alike, but Mount Kailash is so ancient that it transcends modern religion. The peak is at the center of an ancient origin myth that believes it to be the mythical Mount Meru, which was considered the birthplace of the world in ancient Asian culture.

Today, followers of Bonism, Tibet’s ancient religion, believe that climbing Mount Kailash will exonerate them from their sins. Bonists are required to hike the mountain’s circuitous route counter-clockwise, with one lap known as a kora. To assure enlightenment, these pilgrims must complete 108 koras, which is no small feat despite the eternal reward.

Glastonbury Tor, United Kingdom

The Glastonbury area has long been associated with legends, including that of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere, who are believed to be buried in the town’s local church. As a result, myths surround Glastonbury Tor, the region’s conical hill that houses a 14th-century church atop the summit. Purported to have a strong energetic current due to its position over ley lines, which are supernatural lines that run throughout the universe, Glastonbury Tor is often associated with Avalon, the isle of enchantment in Celtic folklore.

Others believe that the hill’s hollow interior is home to fairies, while some say it is an entrance to the underworld. Regardless, it’s one of the most spiritual sites in the country, with strong Pagan roots that draw pilgrims to its summit. At only 500 feet above sea level, the hike up the Tor is a short trek, with buses that run closer to the hill’s summit for an easier trip.

Mecca, Saudi Arabia

The journey to Mecca is arguably one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world — after all, the word “mecca” is defined in Merriam-Webster as “a place regarded as a center for a specified group, activity, or interest.”

As the birthplace of the prophet Muhammad and the site associated with the beginning of Islam, Mecca is visited by Muslims making the Hajj pilgrimage. As one of the pillars of Islam, this journey is expected to be completed by Muslims at least once in their lifetimes, along with other important acts such as fasting during Ramadan. As a result, millions of Muslims congregate annually to make the pilgrimage during the last month of the Muslim calendar.

Lumbini, Nepal

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Rupandehi District of Nepal. Since the Buddha once asked his disciples to visit Lumbini, it is considered one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is often completed as a way to pay respect to the Lord Buddha. As a result, the sacred site is home to several monuments that honor the Buddha, also known as Siddartha.

In addition to Devdaha, the ancient capital where Siddartha spent his earliest years, the Maya Devi Temple resides in Lumbini. This ancient shrine was built to honor Siddartha’s mother and is one of the most revered sites for Buddhist pilgrims.

Uluru, Australia

Uluru, also known as Ayer’s Rock, translates to “the great pebble” in the language of Australia’s Aboriginal people. A stunning rock formation that rises out of the Northern Territory’s landscape, Uluru is one of the most sacred sites of the local Aboriginal tribe, known as Aṉangu. Since the site has been a significant part of Aṉangu culture for 30,000 years, visitors to the park are no longer allowed to climb Uluru, as it is a pilgrimage for Indigenous people only.

However, visitors are permitted to walk around the base of Uluru, a journey that takes roughly four hours. There are also several smaller sections of the base walk that can be completed, including the Mala walk, which features caves adorned with ancient petroglyphs.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

As an ancient complex of temples built in Cambodia during the 12th century, Angkor Wat is consistently lauded as an architectural achievement. Built by the Khmer civilization, the massive complex was first constructed to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, before becoming a Buddhist site at the end of the century.

As a result, the complex is built in accordance with the sacred cosmology of both religions, often employing the number 108 and all of its divisions. Although it would eventually fall into disuse, Angkor Wat was an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists during the 14th century. After being rediscovered in the 1840s, pilgrims and tourists alike began to return to the sacred site, which is the largest religious complex in the world.

Paro Taktsang, Bhutan

One of the most sacred sites in Bhutan, Paro Taktsang, also known as “Tiger’s Nest,” is a requisite pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists. Bhutanese pilgrims journey up a trail of over 1,000 steps to a cliffside monastery, which was built surrounding a cave to honor Guru Padmasambhava in 1692.

Situated 10,000 feet above sea level, the original pilgrimage trail was a death-defying journey alongside a cliff. In recent years, it has been rebuilt with protective guard rails in the more precipitous spots. Buddhist monks are often stationed on the way up, offering pilgrims refreshments on their journey, which usually takes four to five hours round-trip.

St. Olav’s Way, Norway

Norway’s most famous pilgrimage is in honor of St. Olav, a former Viking king who was canonized for his efforts to spread Christianity in Scandinavia. His shrine is located in a cathedral in Trondheim, and it is here that pilgrims walk to pay their respects.

There are nine different St. Olav Ways, all of which meander for a collective 1,864 miles through the Norwegian countryside. The most well-trodden path is Gudbrandsdalsleden, a 400-mile-long trail that begins in Oslo and takes over one month to complete. Since it was also once the main road during the Middle Ages, it’s likely that St. Olav used the trail himself, which makes the experience all the more meaningful.

Croagh Patrick, Ireland

The fourth-tallest mountain in Ireland, Croagh Patrick is a pilgrimage route that dates back thousands of years. Long before Christianity was the dominant religion in the British Isles, the mountain was where Pagans gathered to celebrate the beginning of the harvest season.

Today, the mountain is named for none other than St. Patrick himself, who was on a mission to convert Pagans to Christianity in the fifth century and fasted atop the mountain for 40 days. From then on, the mountain’s summit became a sacred site. As an important piece of Ireland’s history, Croagh Patrick is a popular pilgrimage for Christians and seculars alike — the somewhat arduous journey takes a minimum of four hours and requires a difficult scramble toward the top.

Sanctuary of Atotonilco, Mexico

A mere 7.5 miles from the bustling town of San Miguel de Allende is the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, which translates in the Indigenous language to “Place of the Hot Waters.” Located in a region known for its thermal springs, the land was acquired in the 18th century by a local priest, who subsequently built a church. Since then, nearly every inch of the church’s interior has been painted with murals depicting religious scenes, earning the church the moniker “Sistine Chapel of Mexico.”

With its dormitories, meeting halls, and dining rooms, Atotonilco has space to accommodate those who seek healing. As a result, thousands of pilgrims make the journey to Atotonilco every year, especially before Holy Week. At this time, there is an annual procession when hundreds of pilgrims walk in the dark from Atotonilco to San Miguel de Allende, an overnight journey that ends at sunrise.

Barbecue is one of America’s most beloved — and debated — culinary traditions. From the Carolinas to Hawaii, each region of the U.S. has their own take on barbecue, from the smoking process to the sauces and sides. And each region will probably tell you theirs is the best. Wondering what all the fuss is about? Here are four of the most popular regional barbecue styles in the U.S., explained.

Texas

The Lone Star State boasts several different (and equally tasty) barbecue traditions thanks to its vast and varied geography. German immigrants introduced their butchering techniques, while the eastern side of the state stayed true to more southern roots. Mexican cuisine introduced barbacoa, and cowboys eschewed smoking their meat. However, Hill Country (in Central and South Texas) is the perhaps most iconic spot for finding flavorful, smoky fare — drawing ‘cue lovers from around the world.

The Meat: The cow dominates in this cattle country, and beef — brisket, to be exact — is the favorite cut for smoking. Plump and well-seasoned sausages come in second, which is a nod to the many descendants of German immigrants who call the Hill Country home.

The Sauce: Forget it partner, this is Texas! Well, this was Texas, where sauce was scorned by old-timers who insisted it obscured the quality of the meat. Times have changed, however, and today sauce is available everywhere. World-famous Franklin Barbecue in Austin offers a ketchup-y, vinegary sauce enlivened with Worcestershire and hit with a few shots of espresso.

The Sides: Pickles and onions aren’t actually sides in Texas, but rather an integral accompaniment to every smoky slab of meat. As is common in most regions, cabbage slaw brings a welcome lightness and acidity to an otherwise heavy meal. Beans (baked and sweet or cowboy pintos) also make an appearance, along with macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and crispy, fried okra.

The Carolinas

The Meat: Whether hailing from North or South, residents of the Carolinas take their ‘cue seriously. “Barbecue” is a noun, and the protein almost exclusively refers to pork — slowly smoked over hickory wood and then “pulled” (shredded) or chopped after the pig (either the whole hog or shoulder) has achieved tender, juicy perfection. The meat is then piled atop slices of squishy white bread — maybe a bun if you’re in a fancier joint.

The Sauces: Sauce is where the regional characteristics of the Carolinas really come into play, although they often overlap. In coastal, eastern North Carolina, barbecue sauce is spicy, vinegar-based, and is used to coat the pork and as a mopping sauce. Western North Carolina in Appalachian country, however, builds on this classic with the addition of tomato sauce or ketchup to create a sauce they refer to as “dip.” In the Gold Belt of South Carolina, German immigrants even incorporated their beloved mustard. You can also find both eastern and western barbecue styles on the menu in a pocket of northeast Arkansas as well as in Missouri’s southeastern “Bootheel” region, an area you’d think would lean towards the more local flavors of Memphis or St. Louis.

The Sides: In the Carolinas, there’ll be slaw for sure next to your delicious ‘cue. Not coleslaw, but rather simply “slaw,” which is mostly vinegar and cabbage with a bit of ketchup for color. Plain, boiled, white potatoes are still popular in the east, while corn sticks — the love child of cornbread and deep-fried hushpuppies — reign supreme. In South Carolina, you can also dig into hash, which is a thick, gravy-like, pork stew ladled over a mound of plain, white rice, grits, or bread.

Hawaii

The islands of aloha aren’t lazy in the barbecue department, and though the more-steamed-than-smoked feast differs from traditional southern barbecue, no one at the luau will complain. The centuries-old ritual involves digging a deep fire pit called an imu, which is then covered with volcanic rocks to retain the heat and layered with banana and ti leaves to protect and add flavor to the food. In goes the bounty, which is then sealed to gently steam for the better part of a day.

The Meat: While whole roast pig is the highlight of Hawaiian barbecue, almost any delicious food can be incorporated into an imu such as poultry, seafood, breadfruit, and starches like sweet potatoes and taro. Kalua pork (from the shoulder) is a sure winner if you don’t possess a whole hog. And skip the sauce to start. While kukui nuts and seaweed used to go in the pit, today’s chefs only use sea salt while cooking. Condiments like chile pepper water and Maui onions are added tableside.

The Sides: What a luau lacks in strong smoke, it makes up for in accompanying dishes. Hawaii’s side dish hustle is strong. In addition to traditional treats like poi (a paste made from pounded taro), Hawaiians enjoy lomi lomi salmon (rubbed with onions and tomatoes), poke (chopped raw fish), and creamy potato-macaroni salad.

Missouri

Located over 200 miles apart, the cities of Kansas City and St. Louis are separated by the rest of Missouri. They’re rivals in sporting teams, civic pride, and barbecue. Truth be told, the two cooking styles aren’t that different, but there’s enough variety to keep the argument interesting.

The Meat: Both cities go big for baby-back ribs, and baby-backs even outsell St. Louis-style ribs in St. Louis. But the favorites branch off from there. Kansas City is famed for its burnt ends, the crispy, caramelized ends of briskets that are double smoked and served on plates, in sandwiches, or simmered with sweet beans. St. Louis doesn’t turn up its nose at the nose — ask patrons who line up at Smoki O’s for pig snoot, which is just what you think it is: thinly sliced, crispy pig nose eaten like a potato chip.

The Sauces: If you like Sloppy Joes, you’ll dig the molasses sweet sauce slathered on barbecue in Kansas City — darkened with ketchup and carrying very little kick. It’s Memphis-style, but minus the rub and laid on much thicker. On the east side of the Show-Me State, St. Louisans like their ribs caramelized with a thinner, vinegar-based sauce carrying slightly more heat.

The Sides: Middle America throws everything on the melting pot table at a barbecue and the sides reflect that. Soul food makes a prominent appearance, and you’ll find slow-simmered green beans and macaroni and cheese along with coleslaw, root beer baked beans, and corn. Eat up!

There’s a reason Paris is called the “City of Light” — and not just because of the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling light show every evening. One of the world’s most-visited cities, the French capital dazzles visitors with world-famous restaurants, art galleries and museums, chic boutiques, and landmarks to fill weeks worth of vacation time. After you’ve checked off the big hitters — Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Sacré-Coeur — you may be wondering where to head next. Here are nine under-the-radar landmarks to check out on your next Parisian adventure.  

Louis Vuitton Foundation

With a striking modern, abstract exterior covered in giant panels of smooth glass, the Louis Vuitton Foundation — designed by famed architect Frank Gehry — is impossible to miss. Since the art museum and cultural center opened in 2014, the foundation has housed a permanent collection of 268 pieces from 102 artists, in addition to two temporary displays of modern art, which rotate annually. The minimalist interior includes exhibits on pop art, expressionist art, and music and sound, displaying works from both the 20th and 21st centuries. Don’t forget to visit the auditorium, designed to showcase live artistic performance, such as dance and music. Lovers of the arts will fall hard for the whole experience.

Palais Garnier

Even if you’re not into opera, visiting the Opéra National de Paris, also known as Palais Garnier, will feel like stepping into a fairy tale. The magnificent building in the ninth arrondissement was constructed between 1861 and 1875 under the orders of Emperor Napoleon III to host the Paris Opera. The 98-foot-tall vault constructed of swirled marble and double staircases impresses from the moment you step inside. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium embellished in marble, stucco, and velvet includes an eight-ton bronze and crystal chandelier that hangs prominently. Attend an opera, ballet, or symphonic concert to fully experience this magnificent space. Currently, the venue produces 380 shows a year to over 800,000 audience members. Experiencing a Parisian opera is one way to feel a true connection with the city.

The Molitor

Not only is the Molitor a historical monument, but it’s also a modern-day pool, spa, hotel, bar, rooftop space, art gallery, and restaurant rolled into one. A symbol of Parisian luxury, this urban resort opened in 1929 and for six decades was the place locals came to swim, sunbathe, play sports, and socialize. When it closed in 1989, the artistically-minded patrons who frequented the Molitor occupied the abandoned building and turned it into a hub for creativity and expression.

During the 1990s, the building was covered in colorful graffiti and hosted parties, events, fashion shows, and concerts. Fast-forward to present-day, and the city has revamped the Molitor. However, the building’s history has not been erased — the city’s first street art graffiti has been preserved on the hotel’s lobby walls and corridors. The restaurant and spa are open to the public, and the Molitor hosts numerous cultural and sporting events. The building holds many of Paris’ decade-old secrets for those who want to dig beneath the surface.

The Statues of Liberty

If you thought that the Statue of Liberty was in New York, you’d only be partly right. Scattered across Paris are a number of replicas of the famous statue, which the French gifted to the United States to commemorate the alliance of the two nations during the Revolutionary War. The most prominent (and largest) statue stands on a plinth on the Île aux Cygnes beside the Pont de Grenelle (Grenelle Bridge). It’s a quarter of the scale of its North American counterpart, and was gifted to Paris in 1889 by its American expat community.

The Musée d’Orsay’s Lady Liberty greets visitors as they arrive. Standing a little under 10 feet tall, the piece is also the work of acclaimed French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. Until 2011, it stood in the Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens), where another — a bronze copy — replaced it a year later. And there’s more: The bronze Lady Liberty, which until recently graced the courtyard at the Musée des Arts et Métiers, is on loan to the U.S. for a decade, but the museum retains the original plaster casts that were used to create the original.

Cimetière des Chiens

Animal lovers, be prepared to shed a tear or two as you visit this suburban pet cemetery in the Asnières-sur-Seine neighborhood. Its full name is Le Cimetière des Chiens et Autres Animaux Domestiques — the cemetery for dogs and other pets. In a tranquil spot beside the river, you’ll find the graves of much-loved canines and feline family members, famous animal actors, and heroes, including the grave of Rin Tin Tin, a German shepherd that starred in his own children’s television series. Rescued as a puppy from a World War I battlefield, Rin Tin Tin went on to star in 27 Hollywood movies before his death in Los Angeles in 1932. Also look out for the monument to a Saint Bernard named Barry. A poignant inscription reveals that he saved 40 human lives before making the ultimate sacrifice while trying to rescue the 41st. Actually, the legend isn’t true, though the sentiment is admirable — this canine hero died in old age after living out his retirement in a Swiss monastery.

Rue Dénoyez

Dubbed “Street Art Alley,” this quirky Parisian street is one of the city’s most colorful corners. In many parts of the capital, daubing the walls is not permitted, but this lane is a rare exception. Street artists capitalize on this and have created a vivid and multi-faceted mural composed of the work by some of the city’s best graffiti artists married with the creative use of mosaics and household objects like teapots and toys. The art is organic and haphazard, but the end result is one of delightful whimsy, guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Pâtisserie Stohrer

Nicolas Stohrer, pastry chef to King Louis XV, opened this historic patisserie almost 300 years ago in 1730. Pâtisserie Stohrer is the oldest bakery in the city and has an enviable reputation for baking what many consider to be the best vol-au-vents (hollow puff pastries) in Paris. When the monarch’s fussy father-in-law complained his brioche was too dry, Stohrer soaked it in wine. Later switching to hard liquor, the rum baba was born. Stohrer’s culinary inventions didn’t stop there — he was also responsible for creating the crème chiboust (a famous cream tart filled with Italian meringue), the puits d’amour (a hollow pastry filled with red currant or raspberry jam), and the traditional-style religieuse (two buns filled with cream and topped with chocolate ganache). Unsurprisingly, discerning foodies with an insatiable sweet tooth have been coming to this spot on Rue Montorgueil ever since.

Pagoda Paris

The Pagoda Paris started out as a “hôtel particulier,” a term which distinguished the building as a grand private residence. An art and antique dealer named Ching Tsai Loo bought the place in 1925 and set about transforming the building into a gallery that would match the splendor of the pieces he intended to display. From the red walls and tiered exterior to the lavish Shanxi lacquer panels that adorn the interior rooms, the modern-day art gallery is a triumph of Chinese architecture. For a time after Loo’s death in 1957, the building was neglected, but today, it remains fully restored. The pagoda is also a breathtaking event venue that frequently hosts cocktail receptions, private dinners, conferences, photo shoots and fashion shows.

Centre Pompidou

The futuristic design of the Centre Pompidou made it one of the most controversial buildings in Paris when it opened in 1977. Architects Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano designed this landmark. In fact, locals refer to it as the Beaubourg after its location, rather than calling it the Pompidou Center. Hidden behind the façade of this cultural hub is a public library and the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, where you’ll find works by the likes of Picasso, Matisse, Warhol, and Kapoor. But no matter what’s on display inside, it’s always the exterior systems that steal the show. Anything functional is color-coded: green for plumbing, blue for climate control, yellow for electrical, and red for anything involving safety or movement, such as the diagonal escalator which Parisians affectionately dub the “Caterpillar.”