**Exploring Abandoned Places in Antwerp, Belgium and Vienna, Austria**

Category : | Sub Category : Posted on 2024-10-05 22:25:23

Abandoned places have a mysterious allure, offering a glimpse into the past and the passage of time. In Antwerp, Belgium, and Vienna, Austria, there are various abandoned sites that are waiting to be explored by adventurers and urban explorers. Let's delve into some of these fascinating locations. **Antwerp, Belgium** 1. **Fort van Walem**: Located near Antwerp, Fort van Walem is a well-preserved fort that was built in the 19th century. This abandoned military structure offers a unique insight into Belgium's history and is a popular spot for photographers and explorers. 2. **Begijnhof Lier**: This abandoned beguinage in Lier, near Antwerp, is a quiet and serene place that was once home to religious women known as beguines. The abandoned houses and chapel are a haunting reminder of a bygone era. 3. **Doel**: Perhaps one of the most famous abandoned places in Belgium, Doel is a ghost town located near Antwerp. The town was scheduled for demolition to make way for a harbor expansion, but some residents refused to leave, resulting in a surreal mix of abandoned and inhabited buildings. **Vienna, Austria** 1. **Flak Towers**: Vienna is home to several World War II-era flak towers that were used for anti-aircraft defense. These massive concrete structures stand as stark reminders of the city's wartime past and some of them are now abandoned, with peeling paint and graffiti-covered walls. 2. **Semmering Railway**: The Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Vienna, is a stunning abandoned railway line that winds through the picturesque Austrian countryside. The abandoned stations and tunnels along the route make for a hauntingly beautiful exploration. 3. **Spittelau Incineration Plant**: Designed by architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the Spittelau Incineration Plant in Vienna is an abandoned industrial building that has been transformed into a colorful work of art. The plant is no longer operational but stands as a unique and fascinating example of repurposed architecture. Exploring abandoned places in Antwerp, Belgium, and Vienna, Austria offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to see history in a different light. From military forts to ghost towns and industrial relics, these locations are waiting to be discovered by those with a sense of adventure and curiosity. Just remember to always respect the sites and follow any safety guidelines to ensure a memorable and safe exploration experience.