The micronation of Sealand, which is located off the coast of Suffolk, England has claimed ownership of these derelict structures. They were originally installed during the Second World War to help protect the River Thames and the route to London.
The forts were never dismantled after the War and were never maintained, giving them a rusted and creepy appearance.
Military Hospital – Beelitz, Germany
The complex of about 60 buildings was initially designed to be a sanitorium but became a military hospital during World War 1. Adolf Hitler was in fact treated here for an injury to his leg which he received fighting in the Somme. In 1945 it was taken over by Red Army and remained as a military hospital until 1995 under the Soviets.
When the Soviets finally withdrew, sometime after reunification, there were attempts to privatize the hospital. Some were successful, and there is now a neurological rehabilitation center on the grounds and a center for the care of those with Parkinson's disease. Other buildings including the psychiatric ward or surgery were successfully taken over and had been left abandoned since 1994 and unsecured giving rise to graffiti and a feeling of a ghost town.
Dadipark – Dadizel, Belgium
The Dadipark which opened during the 1980s was primarily a giant playground, with structures such as giant slides and swings for visitors to enjoy. Unfortunately, as more advanced theme parks have come into the mix, the original excitement for this kind of experience lost its sparkle, and the park decided to close in 2002.
What is it about abandoned parks and playgrounds that feel so creepy?
Abandoned Domino Sugar Factory — Brooklyn, New York
The Domino Sugar factory was functioning up until 2004 when it closed down. The end came for the 150-year-old factory after 250 members of staff went on an extended strike. The company eventually decided to cease all operations and closed the factory.
It was such an iconic part of the Brooklyn skyline that the factory and a few of the other buildings in the same complex were awarded landmark status in 2007.
Abandoned Power Plant – Belgium
The massive size of this structure is enough to creep us out, but its water-cooling station is also starting to be overtaken by nature which is adding a creepy natural element.
This power station was once a fundamental structure for the city, and now it sits unused.