Mysterious Historic Ruins: 10 Forgotten Cities of Europe

Embark on a journey through Europe's abandoned cities! Discover traces of lost civilizations in the 10 most fascinating deserted cities of Europe.

Europe is a continent that has hosted many empires throughout history, witnessed magnificent palaces, splendid temples, and epic battles. But there are some cities that seem as if someone set the time machine to the wrong setting and erased them from the history books! Yet these cities await discovery with streets forgotten by time, mysterious ruins, and a wealth of astonishing stories.

Come on, let's listen to the secrets whispered by ancient stones and embark on a journey in search of lost civilizations. This is not just a history lesson; we’ll experience a bit of adventure, a bit of excitement, and perhaps even a few spine-tingling moments! Who knows, we might even uncover clues to the lost treasure we are searching for. If you're ready, let’s take a little detour back in time!

1 - Pompeii, Italy: The City Frozen in Time

Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii was buried under ash in 79 by the fury of Mount Vesuvius and is essentially frozen in time. Today, it welcomes visitors as one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world. If you want to travel back in time, walking through the stone streets of Pompeii, witnessing the arenas where gladiators once battled, and feeling the daily life of 2000 years ago is just for you! But be careful – the Vesuvius is still active, and an overly serene scene might be a little suspicious…

If you are a history and discovery enthusiast, while wandering through the excavation site of Pompeii, you will uncover fascinating details of everyday life of the ancient Romans. From wall paintings to frescoes, from Roman baths to ovens, everything is almost as preserved as on its first day. In some houses, you can still find mosaic floors and kitchen stoves. Walking here, you can’t help but wonder, “What would my life be like if I had lived here?”

Of course, you will be tired after exploring Pompeii. Need accommodation suggestions? If you're looking for a budget option, you can find affordable boutique hotels or hostels in Naples. But if you think, “I want a luxurious getaway in history,” then seaside hotels in the Gulf of Naples are just right for you. In particular, Grand Hotel Vesuvio offers a comfort befitting the Roman Empire.

If you plan to visit Pompeii, it is best to go early in the morning because tourist crowds increase around noon and the warm air creates an extra steam effect over the volcanic stones! To avoid getting lost, it might be helpful to take a guided tour or to do some research in advance and pinpoint Pompeii’s most important spots. Getting lost here isn’t too bad, but make sure you don’t fast-forward the time machine too much and miss the evening!

2 - Craco, Italy: The Mystery on the Hill

Craco, Italy

Craco is an abandoned medieval town built on a hill in the Basilicata region of Italy. It was completely evacuated after a major landslide in 1963 and has since remained a silent ghost town. With its narrow stone streets, churches defying decay, and abandoned stone houses, it is a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure seekers. It especially offers a true visual feast for photographers and history enthusiasts.

When you step here, you will feel as if time has stood still. The sound of the wind echoing through the ruined walls will immerse you in the dark atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Not only tourists – even Hollywood has discovered this place! Films like "The Passion of the Christ" and "Quantum of Solace" were shot here. If you want to feel like you’re in a movie scene, visiting Craco is just right for you. But don’t forget to bring your armor and sword!

When it comes to accommodation options, you have two alternatives. If you are planning a budget trip, you can find boutique hotels and affordable guesthouses in Matera, one of the larger cities closest to Craco. However, if you say, “I want to fully experience the medieval spirit with a touch of luxury,” then luxurious stone hotels like Palazzo Margherita are just right for you! Here you can soak up the ancient atmosphere, enjoy wine tastings, and experience gourmet cuisine.

Reaching Craco becomes much easier if you rent a car. The nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport, from which you can reach Craco in approximately two hours by car. If you’re after a thrilling adventure, it’s best to head out early and stay until sunset. Because at sunset, Craco’s stone structures take on a golden hue, creating a truly enchanting view!

3 - Oradour-sur-Glane, France: The Ghost Village of World War II

Oradour-sur-Glane, France

Oradour-sur-Glane is a village that witnessed one of the most tragic events of World War II and has been preserved untouched as a memorial to this day. On June 10, 1944, Nazi SS troops brutally murdered 643 innocent civilians here. Women and children were locked inside a church and burned, while the men were shot on the streets. The French government decided to preserve this site as a war memorial and center of remembrance. Visiting Oradour-sur-Glane is not just a trip; it is also a confrontation with history.

This place is like a ghost town frozen in time. Burnt-out cars, walls marked with bullet holes, and abandoned buildings still bear the traces of that dreadful day. Every structure in the village stands as a silent witness to the dark side of war and human cruelty. Visitors can tour the museum called Le Centre de la Mémoire to learn the details of the events and feel the horror of war up close.

How to get to Oradour-sur-Glane? The village is located just 25 kilometers from Limoges. After arriving in Limoges by train from Paris, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach the village. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, because the heat in summer can make the tour a bit challenging.

As for accommodation suggestions, for budget-conscious travelers, affordable hotels and boutique guesthouses in Limoges are a good choice. If you are looking for a luxurious experience, historic chateaux and spa hotels like Château de Nieuil can offer you a unique atmosphere. Visiting this village is not just a tour; it is a lesson in history that should never be forgotten.

4 - Poveglia, Italy: Venice’s Cursed Island

Poveglia, Italy

Right next to the fairy-tale canals of Venice lies an island famous for its mysterious and chilling tales: Poveglia Island. This island was used as a quarantine zone during a major plague outbreak in the 14th century, where thousands of the afflicted were left to their fate. As if that weren’t enough, in the 19th century a psychiatric hospital was built, further darkening the island’s past. Today, access is officially forbidden, but adventurous travelers can secretly set foot on this eerie island through special tours.

If you are fascinated by ghost stories and paranormal phenomena, Poveglia is just for you! According to visitors’ accounts, strange whispers can be heard at night, and some even claim to have been pushed by unseen forces. As you wander through the ruins of the old hospital, tales are told of the spirits of former doctors still roaming the premises. If you have the courage, you too can try to experience the mystical atmosphere of the island.

Getting to Poveglia isn’t easy because it is not officially open to tourists. However, some brave captains organize secret tours from Venice on private boats to bring you to the island. If you are looking for a spontaneous adventure, you can join one of these guided secret tours. Just remember, you don’t want to be stranded there at night!

In Venice, there are various accommodation options. For those seeking a budget-friendly stay, the city offers numerous boutique hotels and affordable guesthouses. Hostel Colombo and Generator Venice offer stylish and economical options. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, historic hotels like the Aman Venice Hotel or the Gritti Palace, with their enchanting historical ambiance, are just right. A morning coffee by the canals might just make you forget the spine-tingling adventure for a moment.

5 - Trellech, Wales: The Lost Celtic City

Trellech, Wales[/caption> Once one of the largest medieval cities in Wales, Trellech is today a mysterious archaeological site waiting to be discovered. According to historical records, in the 13th century it was a major center of trade and industry. Over time, however, due to wars, economic decline, and natural disasters, it shrank and was nearly forgotten. Today, archaeologists and history enthusiasts flock here to trace the remnants of this lost Celtic city. When you visit Trellech, you will have the chance to explore old stone buildings, well systems, and church ruins. One of the most striking discoveries is the so-called "The Virtuous Well", regarded by the ancient Celts as a water source with healing properties. According to legend, drinking from this well is said to heal illnesses and provide a spiritual peace – who knows, it might just be worth a try! Getting to Trellech is quite easy. It is located about an hour’s drive from Cardiff, making it an ideal route for a day trip. If you want to take a complete journey through time, you can join archaeological tours in the area and receive detailed information from expert guides. Especially in the spring and autumn, walking through Trellech amidst nature’s enchanting colors offers a unique experience. For accommodation options, travelers planning a budget trip can find affordable boutique hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns such as Monmouth or Usk. If you are looking for a more luxurious and comfortable experience, hotels like the Celtic Manor Resort with chic spa facilities and historic charm can be an excellent choice. Sipping tea in the lush Welsh countryside in the morning might make you feel as though you are in a completely different world! 6 - Ani, Turkey: The Ephesus of the East [caption id="attachment_2890" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Ani, Turkey

In eastern Turkey, near the Armenian border, lies the ancient city of Ani, which once hosted over 100,000 people and was a powerful trade center. Ani, one of the largest cities of the Middle Ages, was an important stop on the Silk Road and the capital of the Great Armenian Kingdom. However, due to wars, earthquakes, and abandonment, it gradually fell into oblivion and today awaits visitors as a fascinating ruin that defies time.

Upon entering Ani, you are greeted by majestic walls and structures built with magnificent stone craftsmanship. Landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Church of Saint Gregory, the Seljuk Mosque, and the Zoroastrian Temple are among the unique architectural masterpieces that reflect Ani's multicultural past. Walking here feels like taking a time travel journey back thousands of years. In winter, when Ani is covered in snow, it offers visitors a fairy-tale atmosphere. 📸

How do you get to Ani? The ruins of Ani are located approximately 45 minutes by car from the center of Kars. After landing at Kars Airport, you can rent a vehicle or join a guided tour to explore this historical legacy. If you wish to explore independently, it’s ideal to depart early in the morning – both to avoid the crowds and to capture stunning photos in the daylight.

Regarding accommodation options, if you are planning a budget trip, the center of Kars offers many boutique hotels and guesthouses at very attractive prices. In particular, Kars Konak Hotel and Cheltikov Hotel impress with their historical charm. If you are after a more luxurious experience, hotels like the Katerina Palace Boutique Hotel, adorned with Russian architectural influences, provide a fantastic ambiance that perfectly complements the historical atmosphere of Ani. Don’t leave without tasting the famous local dishes of Kars – such as turkey ham and Gravyer cheese prepared in traditional styles!

7 - Portmeirion, Wales: An Illusion of an Italian Village

Portmeirion, Wales[/caption> On the northern coast of Wales, there is a unique place where you feel as if you have stepped into a fairy-tale land: Portmeirion. At first glance, it appears to be an Italian village plucked straight from Tuscany, but in fact it was designed as a work of art by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century. With its colorful buildings, charming squares, and stunning sea views, it offers an unexpected Mediterranean dream in Wales. Portmeirion is famous not only for its striking architecture but also for its role in art and pop culture. The cult TV series "The Prisoner" of the 1960s was filmed here, and ever since, its mystical atmosphere has continued to attract visitors. If you love photography, the pastel-colored buildings and flower-adorned courtyards provide a true visual feast. But beware! This place welcomes thousands of visitors every year, so arriving early in the morning will allow you to fully enjoy Portmeirion’s calm and enchanting ambiance. And is it possible to stay here? Yes! If you want a luxurious getaway, the Portmeirion Hotel located within the village is just right for you. With sea-view rooms, gourmet restaurants, and spa facilities, staying here will make you feel as though you are vacationing in an Italian village without ever leaving Wales. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, there are also affordable accommodations available in the nearby town of Porthmadog. And don’t miss the traditional Welsh breakfast – when you visit, you should experience not only the atmosphere but also the local cuisine! Getting to Portmeirion is quite easy by car – it is approximately a 4-hour drive from Cardiff. Alternatively, you can take a train from Birmingham or Manchester to Porthmadog and then a bus to the village. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer, when the gardens are in bloom and the colorful buildings are even more striking. If you’re looking for a different travel experience, Portmeirion is just right for you! 8 - Belchite, Spain: The Traces of the Civil War [caption id="attachment_2892" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Belchite, Spain

Located in the Zaragoza region of Spain, Belchite is a town that witnessed one of the bloodiest confrontations of the Spanish Civil War and today stands as a silent war memorial. After the heavy bombardments and street fighting in 1937, Belchite was reduced to rubble, and instead of being rebuilt, it was left as it was, preserved as a historical relic.

As you wander through the town, ruined churches, bombed-out walls, and streets pockmarked with bullet holes expose the brutal marks of the war. One of the most striking buildings is the San Martin Cathedral, which rises like a ghost, still narrating the violence of that day. Visitors claim that during the night an eerie silence falls, and sometimes whispers can be heard carried by the wind. Perhaps the voices of the past still echo – who knows?

How do you get to Belchite? The town is located about 50 kilometers from Zaragoza and the easiest way to get there is by renting a car or joining guided tours departing from Zaragoza. If you are fascinated by history and war stories, guided tours are especially recommended as they help you understand the true face of war.

Regarding accommodation, for those looking for a budget option, there are plenty of affordable boutique hotels and guesthouses in Zaragoza. If you prefer a more luxurious and comfortable experience, hotels like Hotel Reina Petronila – with high standards – are a great choice. After touring, don’t forget to savor the renowned tapas bars of Zaragoza and taste the delicious Spanish cuisine!

9 - Kayaköy, Turkey: Once a Greek Village

Kayaköy, Turkey

Kayaköy, located in Fethiye in the Muğla region and once a lively Greek settlement, was abandoned after the population exchange in 1923. Formerly known as “Levissi”, this village is a historical treasure where Ottoman and Greek cultures intertwined. Today, when you visit Kayaköy, the sound of silence echoing through the stone streets and nature gradually reclaiming the ruins creates a feeling that is both poignant and impressive.

The village’s most notable structures include two large churches (Taksiyarhis and Panagia Pirgiotissa), chapel ruins, and abandoned neighborhoods consisting of over 500 stone houses. The absence of windows and doors in these houses makes the village appear as if it were frozen in time. As you stroll through, you can imagine the aroma of freshly cooked food that once permeated the streets and the laughter of children that filled the alleys.

For those wishing to visit Kayaköy, there are numerous accommodation options. If you are planning a budget-friendly trip, boutique hotels and guesthouses in Fethiye and Ölüdeniz offer very attractive rates. However, if you are looking for a luxurious and authentic experience, staying in one of the restored stone houses that now serve as luxurious boutique hotels can be an unforgettable experience. Hotels like Kayaköy Boutique Hotel and Avalon Steppes Glamping offer excellent options for a peaceful retreat immersed in nature.

Reaching Kayaköy is quite easy. It takes about 1 hour by car from Dalaman Airport. From the center of Fethiye, you can also get there by shared taxis or private vehicles. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn, as summer temperatures can be very high. If you are there, be sure to experience a sunset walk from Kayaköy to Ölüdeniz!

10 - Döllersheim, Austria: Hitler’s Cursed Village

Döllersheim, Austria

Döllersheim is a village in northern Austria, located about 120 kilometers from Vienna, that was forgotten in the shadow of World War II. As the birthplace of Hitler’s mother, Klara Hitler, it drew the attention of Nazi Germany, and even before the war, it was completely evacuated on Hitler’s personal orders. In 1938, the village population was forcibly removed and the area was transformed into a military training ground. Today, Döllersheim greets its visitors as a ghost village with abandoned ruins and eerie echoes of the past.

Upon arrival, you will encounter ruined stone houses, dilapidated churches, and abandoned cemeteries that bear the relentless marks of time. One of the most striking sites is the St. Martin Church, known as the place where Hitler’s mother was baptized. For history enthusiasts, inscriptions and informational panels documenting the destruction during the Nazi era help in better understanding Döllersheim’s past.

How do you get to Döllersheim? The village is located about 2 hours by car from Vienna. If you enjoy exploring historical sites, you might also visit the town of Zwettl along the way and stop by the famous Zwettl Monastery. However, remember that Döllersheim is located within a military area, and access to some parts is restricted.

Regarding accommodation options, there are no hotels in or around the village. However, nearby cities such as Zwettl and Krems offer many affordable boutique hotels as well as luxurious spa hotels. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, small guesthouses in Zwettl are ideal. But if you think, “I want to end a day filled with history in comfort,” then you can stay at Steigenberger Hotel & Spa Krems and enjoy the famous wines of the Wachau Valley.

Why Should You Visit These Places?

The forgotten cities of Europe are unique destinations that appeal not only to history enthusiasts, but also to photographers and adventure-seeking travelers. If you appreciate archaeological discoveries, ancient cities like Pompeii and Ani offer mesmerizing spots where the past is experienced in all its glory. If you are drawn to ghost towns and the mystical atmosphere of abandoned places, then Craco, Belchite, and Oradour-sur-Glane, with their silent testimonies, will let you feel the darker side of history.

So, which place should you choose? If you want to explore artistic and architectural details, Portmeirion will make you feel as if you are in an Italian village in Wales. If you are looking for a historical experience immersed in nature, destinations like Kayaköy or Trellech will show you how nature has shaped history over time. And if you are fascinated by paranormal stories, Poveglia Island might take you on a chilling yet captivating journey.

No matter which city you decide to visit, it is important to explore with respect and understand the traces of the past. Remember, these places were once vibrant cities built with love, where life thrived and dreams were born. Now it’s up to you to bring t

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Publish Date: 19 Feb 2025

| Author: Europa Tips

| Category: Historical Europe