World's Most Stunning Museums (PHOTOS)

Though best known for their stunning collections, many of the world's museums are also architectural icons which exemplify cutting-edge design. From the out-of-this-world shape of Brazil's Niterói Contemporary Art Museum to the iconic shell-like spirals of New York's Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the structures are often as captivating, perplexing and radical as the world-renowned pieces they house.

We've collected some of the world's most magnificently designed museums below. The designs of some were considered provocative and even distasteful when they were first constructed, but are generally regarded as marvels today. Be sure to vote for your favorite and let us know any you think we've overlooked in the comments.