European Ghost Towns

Ghost Towns: Sites To Give You The Creeps In Europe

As Halloween slowly approaches, we may think of all the creepy places we can visit in America to get us in the spirit of this ghoulish holiday. But what if we want to get spooked outside of the country? Are there other places we can visit that may put the thrill of fear in us? You may be surprised to hear that there are many ghastly ghost towns in Europe that will keep you up at night. Whether it is due to war, or natural disaster, or refuge for the sick and dying, these European ghost towns are sure to send chills down your spine.

What could be creepier than an abandoned leper colony? You can visit one in Greece, on a remote island in Spinalonga. At one point, this island was home to a military fort, but at the turn of the century, the island was used to house leprosy patients. These patients were neglected and shunned around the world, but in Greece, they were sent to this island to live out the rest of their days in a gloomy and isolated existence. However, once a cure was discovered, the surviving patients were treated and left the island, leaving it completely abandoned and untended. But today, visitors can take a guided tour of the island, and even spend part of the day enjoying the scenic beaches.

War has often left behind torn-up country sides and cities alike. But in Spain, there is a town that never rebuilt after the Spanish Civil War. In Belchite, Spain, the battles tore up the city so badly that is was left completely unattended, leaving the desolate, creepy area uninhabited for almost 90 years. Today, it is fenced off for safety, but visitors can take an inexpensive guided tour of the ruins.

War has certainly taken its toll on Italy, too, but for over 20 years, natural disasters had their way with the city of Craco. In the 1960’s many residents of this town relocated because of the many floods, earthquakes, and landslides, leaving the city currently vacant. The city looks so isolated that many filmmakers use it as an opportunity to produce movies that need a lonely, isolated feel. The city is fenced off, but tours are available.

So start making your Halloween plans with a trip to Europe. There are many disturbing sites to see that will provide you with a bone-chilling experience.