Ghost towns from around the world

Once populated, these places are not ghost of a town that once was

Ghost towns may sound spooky and scary, but they're not just for ghosts to haunt! These abandoned settlements are actually a fascinating part of human history. They were once bustling communities, but have since been left to crumble away, giving us a glimpse into the past. From the Wild West boomtowns of the USA to the diamond mining towns of Namibia, each of these ghost towns has a unique history and character.

Take in some of the famous ghost towns from around the world.

Bodie - California, USA

Bodie, California is a true Wild West ghost town that has been preserved in a state of arrested decay, giving visitors a glimpse into the past. Once a bustling gold mining town, Bodie saw its peak in the late 1800s when it was home to over 10,000 residents and boasted a staggering 65 saloons! Now the town is home to some unique artifacts, such as the still-functional Gold King Mine and the Standard Mill, which was once the largest gold processing facility in the country.

Kolmanskop – Namibia

Kolmanskop is a ghost town in Namibia that has been slowly engulfed by the surrounding desert sands. This eerie town was once a thriving diamond mining community, complete with a casino, theater, and even a bowling alley! Today, visitors can wander through the abandoned buildings and marvel at the surreal sight of sand dunes creeping through the doorways and windows. The town's unique architecture, with its distinctive German style, makes it a popular spot for photographers and filmmakers.

Humberstone – Chile

Humberstone was a mining town for saltpeter, a valuable mineral used in fertilizer and explosives. At its peak, the town was home to over 3,500 people. However, by the 1950s, the market for saltpeter had collapsed and the town was abandoned. Today, the well-preserved buildings offer a glimpse into life in a mining town during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Hashima Island - Japan

Hashima Island was home to over 5,000 people at its peak and was one of the most densely populated places on earth. However, by the 1970s, the coal reserves had been depleted and the island was abandoned. Today, the island's buildings are in a state of disrepair and are being slowly reclaimed by nature.

Gunkanjima Island - Japan

The island was home to over 5,000 people and was known for its towering apartment buildings, which were built to house the workers and their families. However, by the 1970s, the coal reserves had been depleted and the island was abandoned. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the island and explore its abandoned buildings, including the apartment blocks, hospital, and school.