Special Sub-Topic: Most beautiful views of Europe Click Here To Play: Most beautiful views of Europe

A cluster of fishing villages on the northwest Italian coast, with steep hillsides and vineyards, once accessible only by footpath or nearby rail, are collectively known as what?

The Five Lands. The towns of Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Corniglia make up the Five Lands (Cinque Terre). The best views are on sunny days, on the terraced slopes above Corniglia. A superb dry white wine is notable in the region.

Which Spanish town is famous for steel, the painter El Greco, it's cathedral, and the Alcazar, which was a battleground during the Spanish civil war?

Toledo. The most spectacular view is from the hillside across the river at dusk, when the Alcazar, the Cathedral, synagogues, and other buildings are illuminated. The parador, or state-run hotel, has all balconied views.

This Swiss town, wedged in a hairpin bend of a fast flowing river, was the home of Albert Einstein when he worked in a patent office, and is notable for the colorful figures on the fountains in the cobblestone streets. There is also a bear pit near one of the river bridges. What is the town's name?

Bern. The best view is from the heights across the river from the bear pit, at dusk with the cathedral and other buildings are illuminated. Bern is, of course, the capital of Switzerland.

In southern France is a cathedral in Toulouse- Lautrec's hometown, built to resemble a fortress as a symbol to dissuade further revolt against the church. Which town am I referring to?

Albi. The extensively and exquisitely painted interior of the cathedral is a wonder to behold. It is unique cathedral ornamentation and is a feast for the eyes from any angle. The Albigensians were the heretical sect which was annihilated, and the cathedral was built as a reminder.The stark contrast between the exterior and interior are remarkable.

On the west coast of Ireland is a natural formation which is breathtaking to behold. These rocky precipices rise 200 meters above the sea and extend for five miles. What is the name for this place?

Cliffs of Moher. The view from these cliffs, particularly when the water is choppy and the atmosphere misty, is astounding. The birds nesting on the ledges and the rocks jutting up from the sea must be seen.

In the Austrian lake district, this small town has steep mountains plunging into the lake with the town nestled on the narrow strip of land. Steep church steeples and nearby excavations of early human life as far back as 3000 b.c. characterize this town. What is it's name?

Hallstatt. The Hallstatt period (1000-500 b.c.) is named for the town. The views are best from the lake, as during the Corpus Christi procession, when the lake is teeming with boats.

This town is home to St. Francis, and houses three churches built on top of each other. Close to Perugia and the pottery capital of Deruta, this hill town is best viewed on approach at dusk. What is the name of the town?

Assisi. The middle church was heavily damaged by a recent earthquake, but the frescoes of Giotto on the life of St. Francis were not harmed.

This Spanish university town northwest of Madrid is known for its Renaissance and Plateresque architecture. This city was captured by Hannibal in 217 b.c. and is known for its double cathedral and the Casa de las Conchas (house of the shells). What is the town's name?

Salamanca. The view from the square facing the cathedral and the university carries one back in time. The cathedral is massive and the carvings on the facade and above the doors is exquisite. It is a breathtaking view.

This Loire valley chateau in France spans the river Cher and is flanked by formal gardens. It was once the home of Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of King Henri II, but was reclaimed by Catherine de Medici upon the king's death. What is the name of this chateau?

Chenonceaux. Light and elegant, this chateau is best seen from the edge of the formal gardens by the river to the left of the chateau. It has a black room for Catherine de Medici to mourn her husband, and arches and turrets befitting a royal chateau.

You are almost at the end of this little quiz. I apologize for the personal preferences I have indulged in, and can only hope that if you see or have seen any of these visual delights, you will forgive me and want to see more. Now for the last one. Arguably the most grandiose building ever constructed, filled with precious works of art and located in the world's smallest nation, what is the name of this structure?

Saint Peter's basilica. The basiclica encloses Bernini's soaring baldaccino, Michaelangelo's Pieta and dome. View the cathedral when sunlight streams to the floor from the dome.