7 Gorgeous Abandoned Places You Need To See

beautiful abandoned places

Unsplash/James Wheeler

Sometimes the most breathtaking places in the world are those that aren’t trampled by tourists. Though these destinations aren’t exactly your traditional paradise, they offer something deeper. Check out these beautiful abandoned places. (You may just want to see them for yourself.)

1. Temple Of Santiago, Mexico

This church was built in the 1500s, abandoned in the 1700s, flooded in the 1900s and, finally, rediscovered in the 2000s. Now, the church is only visible when water conditions are low.

2. Holland Island, Chesapeake Bay, United States

You can’t go visit Holland Island unless it’s via submarine, but it’s still there under the Chesapeake Bay. The island started sinking in the early 1900s and all of its residents relocated shortly after. Currently, you can only see remains and ruble here.

A post shared by Dave (@the_relic_collector) on

3. Kalavantin Durg, India

Located 2,300 feet above sea level, the climb to this fortress is nicknamed “The Climb To Heaven” because it’s so high and so risky to undertake. There are numerous settlements on the way up, but the top will just be you (and the occasional hiker or two).

4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Cambodia’s most famous sight covers more than 400 square miles of temples. Although the site is hundreds of years old, it’s not empty anymore. Now, travelers come here to marvel at the ruins and for good reason — they’re exceptional.

A post shared by Siemreap.net (@siemreapnet) on

&

5. 1984 Winter Olympics Bobsleigh Track, Sarajevo, Bosnia

Abandoned shortly after holding the Winter Olympics because of the brutal siege in 1991, this track is now covered in graffiti and is a must-see in Sarajevo. But don’t wander around the woods here. There are still undetonated landmines scattered around.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Heather Swang (@heather.swang) on

6. Craco, Italy

Abandoned after a landslide, the castle built in the 1300s and other cliffside buildings were left behind by local villagers. Look for people to return for special festivals throughout the year.

A post shared by @mhwarnerphoto on

RELATED

This Abandoned Chinese Fishing Village Will Take Your Breath Away

An Abandoned Shipwreck In Sydney Is Now A Gorgeously Spooky Floating Forest

This Abandoned French Castle Was Transformed Into Colorful Street Art