In America “DMV” stands for the Department of Motor Vehicles, while in Britain it refers to something far more interesting – deserted medieval villages. Join us as we explore the enigmatic ruins of Wharram Percy, widely credited as the most famous deserted medieval village in England.

Any article claiming to showcase the “most stunning” anything is clearly going to be a subjective narrative, with a title that may even border on ballyhoo. But it’s just possible these three bookshops could be the finest in the world, or certainly compete for the crown.

Some time ago Weburbanist did a fantastic article entitled 7 Submerged Wonders of the World, highlighting an astounding selection of underwater cities, monuments and statues. Here’s one with a twist! This semi-submerged bell tower is all that can be seen of the church at Curon Venosta, a small Northern Italian town flooded to make way for an artificial lake.

Derelict churches and places of worship can be found all across the world. The reasons for their abandonment are countless, from increased secularization and local population decline, to changing demographics and even war. But there’s no question that urban decay bestows a mysterious atmosphere upon these once welcoming structures. Here is a selection to whet your appetite.

We’ve all heard of the Lost City of Atlantis, but what about the Lost City of Detroit? It is staggering to think that the once proud Motor City could disintegrate into such total decay. But it is even more mind boggling to imagine how this dilapidated town could be such a treasure trove of glorious architecture from the Gilded Age of America.

Have you ever wondered why countless old buildings – especially churches and holy places – have grotesque statues, known as gargoyles, emerging from their roof tops? How would you like these abominable creatures leering at you each time you walk past your own home?

The Peak District in Northern England is an ancient landscape steeped in myth and legend, none more enduring than that of Robin Hood. Robin’s friend Little John appears alongside him in early accounts dating from 1420 to 1440, and a headstone in Hathersage churchyard is even marked with his name.