Catherine the Great
Catherine the Great transformed Russia from a medieval kingdom into a modern European superpower. Although she ruled as the Empress of Russia for thirty-four years, she actually possessed no Russian blood at all. She seized power through a dramatic coup and spent her reign expanding the empire’s borders, collecting art, and corresponding with the greatest minds of the Enlightenment. Furthermore, her legacy often suffers from scandalous rumors that overshadow her political brilliance. Prepare to enter the court of the most powerful woman in Russian history.
Miguel de Cervantes
Miguel de Cervantes lived a life that rivaled the wildest adventures of his famous knight, Don Quixote. Before he penned the world’s first modern novel, he fought in legendary naval battles, survived years of slavery under pirates, and worked as a tax collector. Furthermore, his literary masterpiece changed storytelling forever by satirizing the knights of old. Although he died relatively poor, his legacy endures in every language. Prepare to tilt at windmills with the most famous writer in Spanish history.
Dome of the Rock
The Dome of the Rock dominates the skyline of Jerusalem with its glittering gold roof and intricate blue tiles. Standing atop the Temple Mount, or Haram al-Sharif, it serves as one of the most significant spiritual sites in the world for both Muslims and Jews. Uniquely, this architectural masterpiece functions as a shrine rather than a mosque, protecting the sacred stone beneath its dome. Furthermore, its octagonal design and history of conquest make it a fascinating study of art, religion, and politics. Prepare to step onto the holy ground of the Old City.