One of the most striking characteristics of a Christian icon is the depicted sacred figure's steady outward gaze, which engages the faithful in a ritualistic exchange. Use this guidebook to explore St. Catherine's Monastery, the home of the greatest collection of Christian icons, including many dating from the 6th century – these are oldest icons in the world.

The worlds greatest ancient mosaics are integrated part of a site’s architecture and therefore, seeing them is uniquely a travel experience. Our travel guide to mosaic sites in the Mediterranean explores the long history of mosaic art and how styles ebbed and flowed across Italy (Sicily, Venice, Ravenna, Rome and Naples), Turkey (Istanbul), Egypt, Syria, and Jordan.