Cliff dwellings present us with a striking contrast between the natural world and the amazing architecture that we build to challenge and overcome it. These photos capture stunning views of some of the most epic mountain towns in the world.

Many old cities or dwellings could have been built on cliffs for a variety of different reasons, but this was most often done with defensive advantages in mind. A high altitude city overlooking a sea passage has a superior command of the surrounding waters and is virtually impossible to assault from the water. Ancient cities on steep hills, on the other hand, might have been built there to defend from land-based aggressors or because of their proximity to important landmarks like rivers.

If you've ever traveled to a small town on a cliff-side with stunning views, we'd love to see them! Please add your photos to this list and vote for your favorites as well.