Greek monks were trying to build monasteries in places that were hidden or difficult to access in order to protect them from ...

Over time it became an important destination for Christian pilgrims ... walls that rise some 30 feet, the monastery was never destroyed, and so retains architecture from all phases of its ...

From the Buddhist traditions of Asia to the Christian traditions of Europe and the Near East, these ten isolated monasteries are among the world’s most gravity-defying spiritual sites.

Those who venture here will find a fascinating combination of heritage, architecture ... Geghard Monastery and the nearby Garni Temple, a rare pagan site and symbol of Armenia’s pre-Christian ...

Editor’s Note: This CNN Travel series is, or was, sponsored by the country it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control ...

Sheikh Majid bin Saud Al Mualla, chairman of the Umm Al Quwain Department of Tourism and Archaeology, front right, explains to Noura Al Kaabi, UAE Minister of Culture and Youth, during a visit of the ...

Many were monastery infirmaries ... mosque and occasionally a chapel for Christian patients. Musicians were often employed to comfort and cheer patients up. They also served as medical schools ...