Human civilization has a long history of marring natural landscapes with concrete and steel. But there are places where nature has claimed back its own, manifesting an eerie beauty in the process. This article will take you on an exploration of 5 such hauntingly beautiful abandoned places reclaimed by nature.
The town of Pripyat, Ukraine
Nicknamed as the 'Ghost Town', Pripyat was once a bustling city housing the workers of Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. But the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 forced the residents to desert the town overnight. Today, nearly 35 years later, nature has invaded the abandoned buildin of Pripyat. Wild animals roam the streets and trees have sprouted through the floors of deserted apartments, creating an uncanny sight for the onlookers.
The Maunsell Sea Forts, UK
These anti-aircraft gun platforms were erected during World War II to deter German air raids. After the war, the platforms were left abandoned. Over time, the rusting structures have become a home for seabirds and acquired a certain haunting charm.
Kudzu-covered buildings in the Southern US
In the South of the United States, a fast-growing vine known as Kudzu has become a symbol of nature's resilience. Abandoned buildings covered in a thick, green blanket of Kudzu offer a strange spectacle and serve as a reminder of nature's relentless force.
Hashima Island, Japan
Once populated by coal miners, Hashima Island was abandoned in the 1970s when Japan's coal industry declined. The deserted island's buildings are now slowly crumbling under the onslaught of wind and sea waves, while vegetation has begun to take over the concrete structures.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world. After the fall of the Khmer Empire, the grand temples were abandoned and subsequently reclaimed by the jungle. Today, the site is a popular tourist attraction, known for the tree roots that intertwine with the ancient stone structures.
Here's a table summarizing these hauntingly beautiful places:
These places serve as a poignant reminder of nature's power and resilience. So, if you're someone fascinated by the intersection of history, abandonment, and the relentless force of nature, these places are sure to pique your interest.
