Europe -

Rangsdorf Airport – from Operation Valkyrie to Operation Urbex

Gosia — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 11:00:38 +0000

Rangsdorf Airport, opened on 30th July 1936, just before the Summer Olympics in Berlin, was initially intended to serve passengers arriving for the Olympics. It was a small airport with a grass runway, primarily meant for sport and recreational flights. However, its history quickly took unexpected turns. Wartime Fate of Rangsdorf Airport After the outbreak of World War II, from October 1939 to March 1940, Rangsdorf became Berlin’s main airport. Authorities feared that Tempelhof Airport would be a major target for bombing raids. Ultimately, Tempelhof resumed its function, and Rangsdorf was converted into a military facility used by the Luftwaffe. From 1939 to 1945, the Bücker Flugzeugbau plant operated here, producing aircraft parts. In 1940, the airport was expanded. A new hangar, Einfliegerhalle, was built because the original 1935 hangar burned down in a tragic accident. A trainee pilot crashed into the hangar filled with other aircraft, causing the fuel tanks to explode. Another factory hall, Sonderbauhalle, was constructed in early 1940 and was reportedly used for building and testing secret designs. Operation Valkyrie Rangsdorf Airport also played a significant role in one of the most important attempts to assassinate Adolf Hitler. On July 20, 1944, around 7 a.m., Claus von Stauffenberg and Werner von Haeften departed from here to Rastenburg for a meeting at the Wolf’s Lair with the intention of assassinating Hitler. After placing the bomb, Stauffenberg left the meeting, returning to Rangsdorf at 3:45 p.m. Believing the assassination had succeeded, he ordered the start of Operation Valkyrie. Unfortunately, Hitler survived, and Stauffenberg and von Haeften were shot soon after returning. Post-War History and Decline Just before the end of the war, the Bücker plant ceased production. Aircraft parts and machinery were taken over by the Red Army and transported, along with dismantled buildings, to the Soviet Union. During the Cold War, the site housed repair facilities for piston and later jet engines. In 1985, a communication bunker was built on the airport grounds, remnants of which, including old equipment and newspapers, can still be seen today. After the Russians left on July 21, 1994, the airport was left with remains of aircraft, rockets, and military equipment. Urbex and New Plans Since 1994, Rangsdorf Airport has been abandoned, with the buildings gradually falling into ruin. Nature has steadily taken over the old hangars, which now resemble an interesting botanical garden. Despite being listed as a historical monument, the site is neglected and deteriorating. Since 2018, the airport has had a new owner who plans to transform the area into a residential complex. Rangsdorf Airport, with its rich and turbulent history, is an extraordinary place that has witnessed many changes and events. Its future seems to depend on new urban development plans, which I hope will preserve this historic site.

Artykuł Rangsdorf Airport – from Operation Valkyrie to Operation Urbex pochodzi z serwisu .

Trieste and the Giant Cave: a Mountain of Steps, a Sea of Experiences

Gosia — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:39:23 +0000

Grotta Gigante is one of those places that sticks in the memory. Initially, I hadn’t planned to visit it, but I stumbled across it on a map and… well, who could resist a cave proudly calling itself “the largest tourist cave in the world”? There was just one problem: officially, I wasn’t supposed to leave Slovenia. When I rented the car, I declared I wouldn’t cross the border, but plans are made to be changed. Foolish and risky as it was, I decided to follow my heart—and take full responsibility if anything went wrong with the car. The result? Every step down into this cave was completely worth it. Grotta Gigante has been open to tourists since 1908 and held the title of the largest show cave for decades. Its dimensions are impressive: 98.5 metres high, 167.6 metres long, and 76.3 metres wide, giving a volume of 365,000 cubic metres. Sure, it may no longer hold the record, but that doesn’t change the fact that it’s an absolute must-visit. Although the cave is enormous, it doesn’t boast as many stalactites and stalagmites as some of the nearby Slovenian caves. The real star is the “Colonna Ruggero” – Roger’s Column – a 12-metre-high stalagmite estimated to be around 200,000 years old. In other words, when Roger was forming, humans hadn’t even discovered fire yet. Some formations are white from calcium carbonate—a sign they’re still growing. Growth rate? About 1 mm every 15–20 years. So, if you’re thinking of coming back to check “how much it’s grown,” don’t hold your breath. Tours are guided only and last around an hour. The route is 850 metres long and… includes 1,000 steps. The consolation? Half are downhill, half uphill. The cave maintains a steady 11°C all year, so in summer, the contrast with the heat outside is striking—bring a jumper or light jacket. The sheer scale of the cave is awe-inspiring, but what’s even more extraordinary are the world’s longest horizontal pendulums. Installed in 1959 by geodesist Antonio Marussi, they act as ultra-sensitive detectors of Earth’s movements. Here’s how they work: the pendulum consists of a beam with a weight (mass) suspended from two steel wires (approximately 95 meters high), the upper one attached to the cave ceiling and the lower one to the floor. The beam rotates horizontally around a nearly vertical axis. The tilted axis creates a magnification effect; even the smallest movement of the Earth translates into a much larger displacement of the beam. The beam is equipped with a mirror onto which a laser is shone. Shifting the beam by even a micron, causes the light spot on the detector to shift and is recorded by the computer. This allows for the detection of even the smallest cave movements, crustal movements, or deviations from the vertical. Horizontal pendulums are ultra-precise spirit levels that measure microscopic rock tilts. In short, the cave monitors itself and the Earth—a bit like a giant, stone seismograph. Furthermore, the ideal cave environment promotes the precision of these measurements. The temperature and humidity are stable here, and there are no vibrations from vehicles or tourists stamping across the surface. Remarkably, the pendulums have registered four of the five largest earthquakes in the last 50 years—from Chile 1960, the 2004 Sumatra tsunami, to the 2011 Japan quake. It’s hard to believe that echoes from thousands of kilometres away are detected here. The pendulums can also track continental drift and crustal tides. Practical information: Opening hours: July–August daily; outside season: Tuesday–Sunday. Usually tours start on the hour—check the official site for current schedule. Tickets: Adults €15, students (19–26) and seniors €12, children 6–18 €8, under 6 free. Booking: Required—by email or phone, ideally at least 2 days in advance. Getting there: The cave is in Sgonico, on the Karst Plateau, a few kilometres from the Slovenian border. There are two large car parks on site. Bonus: Next to the cave is the Speleological Museum, with geological, archaeological, and palaeontological exhibits. Trieste – a city at the crossroads of worlds Since I had already taken the risk of venturing into Italy, I couldn’t skip Trieste. This is a city with character, a little lost in history, yet utterly unique. Nestled between the Adriatic and the Balkans, at the very end (or beginning—depending on how you look at it) of Italy, it’s always been a hotspot: Austrians, Italians, Slovenes, Yugoslavia, the Cold War—it’s like a soap opera in political form. In short, under the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Trieste was the empire’s main port—its window on the world. After WWI, Austria lost, and Italy took the city. The interwar period was tough: Trieste was just one of many Italian ports and lost its prominence. Then came Fascism and WWII. In 1943, Trieste was occupied by the Germans. After the war, the Free Territory of Trieste was established—a strange entity controlled by US and British forces. It was split into Zone A (Trieste itself) and Zone B (Istria). Zone B quickly went to Yugoslavia, while Zone A adopted Italian currency, language, and financial support from Rome. Allowing Italy to co-manage Zone A caused tensions with Yugoslavia, with troops on standby. Eventually, in 1954, an agreement was reached: Trieste and its surroundings went to Italy, the rest to Yugoslavia (today Slovenia and Croatia). Today, after this historical rollercoaster, Trieste is a fascinating blend of cultures, cuisine, and architecture. I began exploring the city from the seaside promenade, where there’s a huge car park. After paying at the meter, I headed straight to Piazza Unità d’Italia. Right next to the promenade, it looks like the city’s elegant living room: on one side, monumental Austro-Hungarian buildings; on the other, the Adriatic. Walking here, you can almost imagine being in Vienna. A little to the left is the city’s “second living room”—Piazza della Borsa (Stock Exchange Square), once the economic heart of Trieste. Today, it’s full of cafés serving excellent Italian coffee, a tradition dating back to the 18th century, when Trieste was one of Europe’s main coffee ports. Nearby is Canal Grande, built in the 18th century to allow boats to reach the city centre for unloading goods. Now decorative, lined with elegant buildings, with small boats moored along it. Trieste also boasts ancient monuments. The oldest is a 1st-century BC triumphal arch. There’s also a Roman theatre, which once held around 6,000 spectators. The historic heart of Trieste sits on San Giusto Hill. Here you can visit San Giusto Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Justus, the city’s patron. Nearby stands San Giusto Castle, a formidable fortress that was once the base for Austrian troops, later a prison, and today a museum. Each bastion looks different, built in various periods to withstand different threats. Next to the castle are the ruins of an ancient basilica and forum.

Artykuł Trieste and the Giant Cave: a Mountain of Steps, a Sea of Experiences pochodzi z serwisu .

Central Albania – Cape Rodon, Durrës and Tirana

Gosia — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 11:36:55 +0000

I started the route towards central Albania in the town of Teth. The first point of my trip was Cape Rodon, also known as the Cape of Skanderbeg. This is definitely a place you must visit while being in Albania. Actually, I could point out three reasons why it’s worth coming here. The first are bunkers, which I wrote about here. The second one is the castle built by Skandenberg in 1452, to defend against the Ottoman Empire. Although it was a hiding place for Skandeberg for a while during the siege of Kruja in 1466, it was destroyed by the Turks only a year later. Currently, only the remains of the former fortress can be seen here. Unfortunately part of it was swallowed by the sea. However, the last and probably the most important reason why this place is at the top of the attractions list are the amazing views. An amazing panorama of Tirana and the surrounding area can be admired from Mount Dajti, located to the east of the capital of Albania. You can reach the peak by car, on foot or by the Dajti Express gondola lift. Following the coast southwards, I reached Durrës – one of the oldest cities in Albania. Durrës is currently the second largest city in Albania, after Tirana. Currently, it’s mainly a tourist resort with all the advantages and disadvantages of this type of place. Durrës was founded by the Greeks in 625 BC, and then during the times of the Roman Empire it was an important trading center. Moreover, in the years 1913-1920 it was the capital of Albania. In the city center there’s a Roman Amphitheater, which is one of the largest facilities of this type in Western Balkans. Apparently, in its heyday, when gladiator fights took place here, it could accommodate up to 20,000 viewers. In the mid-4th century, it was partially destroyed by an earthquake. From Ottoman times it remained buried and forgotten for many years. Only in 1996 was it accidentally discovered during earthworks. Currently, the amphitheater, surrounded by urban buildings, looks quite strange. It would seem that nothing has changed here since the archaeological works. It is completely neglected and littered. Unfortunately, this perfectly illustrates the basic problem of Albania, the lack of use of its tourist potential. Near the amphitheater there are the ruins of the Byzantine Forum and the rotunda. They were built around the 5th century and were an important trading and decision-making centre of the city. Unfortunately, as you can see in the attached picture, they suffer the same fate as the amphitheater. The most surprising thing is that both archaeological sites are located right next to the main square of Durres – Sheshi Liria. The Grand Mosque is also located next to the square. It was built in 1931 and was the largest mosque in Albania at that time. During Hoxha’s dictatorship, the minaret was demolished and the mosque itself remained closed. Both the square and the mosque look modern and seem to have been recently renovated. Meanwhile, nearby monuments of great historical value remain neglected. Actually, while walking around Durrës, I had the impression that this city had a problem with its own identity. Modern buildings mix here with typical socialist housing estates and abandoned places. Apparently that’s its charm 😉 The rest of Durres is typical tourist folklore, with all the kitsch of seaside towns. A sandy beach, a large selection of accommodation, restaurants and other attractions attract many tourists here. Personally, I’m not a fan of this type of places, but I still think it’s worth coming here, even for the amazing view of the sunset from the promenade. From Durres, I decided to go to the capital of Albania – Tirana. Tirana is quite a compact city and I think that one day is certainly enough to visit it. The central point of Tirana is Skandenberg Square with the monument to Skandenberg – the national hero who repelled the attacks of the Turks. Near the square is the Ethema Bey Mosque. The mosque is said to be the oldest structure in Tirana. However, I wonder how it fit into the landscape of Skandeberg Square at a time when statues of Stalin, Lenin and Enver Hoxha stood nearby. It is worth adding that during Hoxha’s dictatorship, Albania was a secular state where any religious practices could result in imprisonment or deportation to a labour camp. What’s more interesting, the Stalin statue was only removed in 1991 during a student demonstration against the socialist regime. Right next to the mosque there’s a huge Bunk’Art 2 nuclear shelter. Inside there’s a museum dedicated to the times of the most radical communist system in Europe, which existed during the rule of Enver Hoxha. The victims of Hoxha’s regime are also commemorated by Post Bllok – a monument located in a representative part of the city on Dëshmorët e Kombit boulevard. Obviously it’s a bunker, which is the most tangible symbol of dictatorship. Another interesting structure that can be seen in the centre of Tirana is the Pyramid. Even though it looks quite modern, appearances can be deceiving. It was designed by Enver Hoxha’s daughter, in honour of her daddy. It was intended to serve as the dictator’s mausoleum. It survived in this form until the fall of the regime. Currently, it has been renovated and serves as a modern art centre. This spot seems to be a favorite place for tourists as well as residents of Tirana. There is nothing surprising, especially when visiting it at sunset. Tirana also aspires to be a modern European capital. The urban space is diversified with artistic installations, such as “Cloud” made of steel rods. At the end of the visit to Tirana and central Albania, to feel the local atmosphere of the city, it’s worth visiting the New Bazaar (Pazari and Ri). You can buy there local products, antiques and souvenirs, or simply observe the life of the locals.

Artykuł Central Albania – Cape Rodon, Durrës and Tirana pochodzi z serwisu .

Ljubljana – a slightly psychedelic city of dragons

Gosia — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 15:36:05 +0000

Ljubljana is one of those cities that’s impossible not to like. Time seems to move slower here, and instead of the traffic jams and rush typical of other European capitals, the city charms with its intimate, relaxed atmosphere. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most). It was built to replace an old wooden bridge that collapsed during an earthquake in 1895. Initially, the plan was to decorate it with winged lions, but in the end, four dragons took the stage. Local legend has it that if a virgin crosses the bridge, the dragons will wag their tails. In practice? Well, let’s be honest – traffic on the bridge is pretty heavy, and the dragons remain stubbornly still. Beyond the Dragon Bridge, three other bridges are worth checking out. One of the oldest is the Shoemakers’ Bridge. Like the Dragon Bridge, it used to be wooden. Back then, it was lined with butcher shops, but the stench proved unbearable, so the authorities ordered them to relocate. Shoemaking workshops moved in instead. Speaking of butchers, Ljubljana also has the Butchers’ Bridge (Mesarski most). Built in 2010, it’s the youngest of the city’s bridges. Today, instead of meat, it’s covered in love locks and quirky sculptures. The most charming of them all is the Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), located at Prešeren Square, the heart of the city. From here, you get a lovely view of the Ljubljanica River and the Franciscan Church. The Triple Bridge is right next to Cankarjevo Nabrežje, the famous riverside promenade full of cafés, eateries, and live music. In the medieval centre, there’s a street that literally stares at you from beneath your feet: Ključavničarska Street, the Locksmiths’ Street. Its cobbles are adorned with hundreds of strange bronze faces. The faces create a surreal scene that stretches all the way to Mestni trg, the city’s oldest square, home to the Town Hall and Robba Fountain. On the other side of the river lies the elegant Congress Square, surrounded by historic buildings including the Slovenian Philharmonic and the University of Ljubljana. The best view of the city spreads from Castle Hill. Ljubljana Castle, or Ljubljanski Grad, towers over the city from 375 metres above. You can walk up in about 10–15 minutes for a free cardio session, or take the funicular that starts near the Central Market. The ride itself is an attraction. Once up there, you can explore the castle courtyard and the Chapel of St. George for free. The watchtower offers a fantastic panoramic view over the city. For a different vibe, head to the Metelkova district. Built on the site of former Austro-Hungarian barracks from 1911, today it’s a riot of colourful murals and psychedelic sculptures, where the parties can go on until the early hours – you can imagine the vibe 😉. The Slovenian government has tried several times to shut Metelkova down, but each attempt was met with resistance from local activists. Today, tourists come armed with cameras, artists with spray paint, and locals keep protesting – Metelkova still walks a fine line between legality and rebellion. In the modern part of the city stands another bizarre monument: the Cyanometer. Created by an artist Martin Bricelj Baraga, it measures the blueness of the sky. Over three metres tall, this column compares the sky above to a full colour palette and uses that to assess air quality. The principle is simple: the more “photoshopped” the blue, the cleaner the air. Faded colours indicate moisture and airborne particles. A local measuring station supplies data, which the Cyanometer displays on its surface along with the temperature. You can even track it online – because if it’s not on the internet, did it even happen? The installation appeared in 2016, coinciding with Ljubljana being named the European Green Capital. To round off your visit, head to the city’s largest park, Tivoli, where a distinctive castle now houses the Centre of Graphic Arts. Ljubljana may be small, but it’s full of character. Dragons, quirky sculptures, historic bridges, and the alternative world of Metelkova ensure you’ll never be bored, yet there are plenty of spots to relax away from the hustle and bustle typical of capital cities.

Artykuł Ljubljana – a slightly psychedelic city of dragons pochodzi z serwisu .

Car cemetery

Gosia — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 12:41:40 +0000

Car cemetery had been on my list for some time however I didn’t expect fireworks when I got there. I suspected that this place would be largely looted. Meanwhile, I saw a hundred cars from the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s in various degrees of disintegration. It’s sad to see all of them slowly rusting and falling into increasing disrepair. Some of them have been dismantled, but there’s still a lot to see. Such a collection must have been a huge treasure in the times of socialism. Many drivers dreamed of such cars back then. The choice is wide: Fiats, Skodas, Syrenas, Mercedes and Opels. Fiat 126p cars lined up neatly in a row looked almost like they were on display in a showroom. I tried to find more information about this mysterious place. Unfortunately, there’s practically no trace of it on the Internet. However, I was interested in the fact that the car cemetery is located close to one of the main routes to Warsaw, in a quite dense forest. It’s surrounded by the fragments of the concrete wall and security guard’s booth. Well, maybe I don’t want to know more… If you like this post more urbex spots you cna find here.

Artykuł Car cemetery pochodzi z serwisu .

Malta – The Fortress Island, Girl on the urbex trail!

Gosia — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 13:02:28 +0000

Malta is called the “Fortress Island.” At first glance, it’s evident that the island’s architecture has a defensive character. High fortifications, citadels, and forts are reminiscent of the times of the Knights of Malta as well as the British era. Throughout its history, Malta was under the rule of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Aragonese, Crusaders, French, and British. Finally, it became an independent country only in 1964. Today, we can see numerous traces from the times of the Knights of Malta, as well as from the period of World War II. The Knights of Malta gained control over Malta in 1530 from Charles V of Spain. From that time, for the next 275 years, the island was under their rules. Many fortifications from this period were built to protect Malta from the Ottoman Empire. In 1565, they fulfilled their purpose, as Turkish forces unsuccessfully tried to capture the island for over three months. Many of these impressive fortifications can be admired today. Indeed, Valetta, seen from the sea, truly looks like a fortress city. During World War II, Malta was one of the most bombed countries in Europe. Due to its strategic location near Sicily, it was the target of continuous attacks by the Germans and Italians. Meanwhile, the British used the island to launch attacks on the Italian navy. In 1943, the Allies began their invasion of Sicily from Malta. This invasion was coordinated from the Lascaris War Rooms in Valetta. There was also a listening post here that intercepted German radio communications. Due to the numerous bomb attacks, Malta has many air-raid shelters. Some of the most interesting ones can be found in Mellieħa, Mosta, and Victoria on the island of Gozo. An interesting site is the fortification system built by the British in the late 19th century, known as the Victoria Lines. These fortifications were intended to protect the northern part of the island from potential attacks, but they were reportedly never used. The Victoria Lines stretch for 12 kilometers and are open for exploration. Some parts of the trail have been destroyed, so it’s best to visit the section known as the Dwejra Lines. This is the best-preserved section of the Victoria Lines. Moreover, the Dwejra Lines are also referred to as the Great Wall of Malta, and from a distance, this structure looks very impressive. The Dwejra Lines are located right next to the Our Lady of Hodegetria Chapel. Adjacent to the Victoria Lines is an old apiary, which adds to the attractions. Although the origin of the word “Malta” is not fully proven, it’s suspected to derive from the Greek word “Melite,” meaning honey-sweet. Malta was renowned for its unique honey produced by a distinct species of bees found only on the island. Some argue that some of these apiaries may date back to the times of Carthage and ancient Rome. It’s possible that these apiaries served different purposes in later periods. Carved into limestone rocks, they could have been used as catacombs or shelters during World War II. Another interesting structure built by the British before World War II is Fort Campbell, also known as Fortizza ta’ Selmun. The fort is located north of the Victoria Lines and was intended to protect Mellieħa Bay and St. Paul’s Bay. On the island of Malta, you can observe many pillbox bunkers scattered along the coastline. Each of these bunkers was equipped with firing positions and had an observation tower on top. Inside, they could accommodate about six soldiers. Some of them are located in very picturesque settings, such as the one near the town of Marsaskala. Next to it is the Riħama Battery. It was built by the Knights of Malta between 1714 and 1716. It formed part of a series of coastal fortifications around Malta’s shores and served to defend St. Thomas Bay. Today, a fairly large building stands on the site, which was once among the largest constructions of its kind in Malta. Inside, visitors can explore three rooms – the central one being the largest with an interesting arched ceiling, while the other two were smaller and supposedly used as storage for food and weapons. The battery saw action only once during Napoleon’s invasion of Malta in 1798. It ceased to be used in the 1820s and unfortunately has since fallen into ruin. However, abandoned places in Malta are not limited solely to military facilities. Malta is a popular holiday destination, but not all hotels are open to tourists. Some of them may not offer a luxurious stay, but they certainly provide a bit of adventure. One such place is the Jerma Hotel near Marsascala. It used to be a luxurious four-star resort built by the Libyan State Company Lafico. Due to this association, one of the hotel’s distinguished guests was Muammar Gaddafi, who had a presidential suite there. The Libyan dictator, Muammar Gaddafi, once maintained good relations with Maltese Prime Minister Dom Mintoff. The hotel ceased operations in 2007, but the exact reasons for its closure remain unclear. Near Mellieħa, there’s an abandoned tourist village called the Festaval Hotel, often mistakenly referred to as Festiwal. The facility was built in 1980 and operated for only about 12 years. Judging by its architecture, the hotel must have been exclusive. The apartments are spacious, and the view from the terraces overlooking Mellieħa Bay is stunning. Guests also had access to two pools. In 2018, there were plans to demolish it and build twelve luxury apartments with pools and a spa, but this project was never realized. On the island of Gozo, near Ramla Bay, there’s another abandoned resort complex called Ulysses Lodge. While the building itself may no longer be impressive, it offers an incredible view of one of the most beautiful beaches on Gozo. In the northern part of Gozo, there’s another interesting site, the Qolla l-Bajda Battery. This battery was built by the Knights of Malta between 1715 and 1716 as part of the coastal fortifications. It is also the northernmost structure of its kind. Currently, the site is in a state of disrepair, and one can hardly find any trace of its former architecture. The interior of the building looks as though it once served as a bar or nightclub before its closure. An additional attraction in the area is the salt pans, about which I wrote here. Near St. Julian’s, there’s an abandoned settlement known as White Rocks. It was built in 1960 for British soldiers stationed on the island. After the British forces left Malta, the settlement was converted into a holiday complex. On a vast area located right on the coast, you can see many buildings adorned with interesting murals. In the end, a real gem: an abandoned Subaru showroom, closed in the late 90s. Inside, you can see many vintage cars. They look like new; if you just pumped up the tires and charged the battery, I think you could go for a ride. The Fuji logo adds to the atmosphere of the place. Furthermore, the showroom is located in the center of the tourist town of Mosta.

Artykuł Malta – The Fortress Island, Girl on the urbex trail! pochodzi z serwisu .

The Causeway Coastal Route – Northern Ireland

Gosia — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 15:26:16 +0000

The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Europe. This picturesque road stretches almost 200 km, winding through cliffside coasts, green hills and the historic castles of the Emerald Isle. Mussenden Temple – the first stop on the way The first stop is the picturesque Mussenden Temple. This remarkable structure, inspired by Roman temples, was commissioned by a wealthy earl who wished to create his private library here. From the outset, Mussenden Temple has captivated visitors not only with its architecture but also its spectacular cliff-top location. Unfortunately, this location carried the risk of erosion and potential collapse of the building. In 1997, due to the cliff’s unstable condition, intensive efforts were undertaken to restore its stability. Although the interior of the Temple is currently closed to visitors, its location is breathtaking. The picturesque landscape from the cliff is the sufficient reason to visit this place. Near the Temple, you can see the ruins of Downhill House, also known as Downhill Demesne. The house was built in the 1770s by an eccentric bishop. The bishop was known for his passion for art and architecture, evident in the monumental structure and unique style of the residence. Unfortunately, due to a fire in 1851 and subsequent neglect, the house fell into ruin, but its remnants still make a profound impression. Portrush – Colorful Houses and the Wishing Arc Continuing along the coast towards the east, it’s worth making a brief stop in the charming town of Portrush. This place is famous for its wide beach and colorful row of terraced houses. Just beyond Portrush, you’ll find the viewpoint known as The Wishing Arch, from which you can admire the incredible panorama of the Irish coastline. Bushmills: A Visit to the Kingdom of Whiskey Of course, a tour of Northern Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the town of Bushmills. This small, unassuming town is renowned for being home to one of the oldest whiskey distilleries in the world. Established in 1608, Bushmills is a major export product of Northern Ireland. Whiskey is such an integral symbol of the Emerald Isle that it is featured on Irish banknotes. At the distillery, you can witness the entire whiskey production process, starting from fermentation, through triple distillation and maturation, to the bottling process. Bushmills prides itself on its unique, delicate flavour achieved through triple distillation. The tour culminates in a tasting session, where you can even sample a 21-year-old whiskey, which can cost up to £160 per bottle. Unfortunately, as the driver, I could only enjoy the aroma of the whiskey. Giant’s Causeway The town of Bushmills is close to one of the greatest attractions of the coast – Giant’s Causeway. It is a must-see during a visit to Northern Ireland. Giant’s Causeway appears as an intricately laid path of thousands of hexagonal basalt columns. This unusual rock formation was created 50-60 million years ago during the Paleogene period, when intense volcanic activity led to the eruption of basaltic lava. As the lava cooled, it cracked into characteristic, polygonal columns that we can admire today. Giant’s Causeway is not only extraordinary rock formations but also amazing views of the coastline. The cliffs surrounding this place add dramatic character and charm to it. To reach Giant’s Causeway, the most convenient way is by car. There’s parking right by the trail, which costs £10. Alternatively, you can take bus route 402 from Bushmills. Buses depart from Main Street, and you can park at the Park&Ride. It’s good to know that access to the trail is free for visitors. However, visiting to the Visitor Center, which offers interactive exhibitions explaining both legends and scientific facts about the site, requires an entry fee. Admission costs around £16 per person (£8 discount ticket) as of 2024. This ticket also includes parking and an audio guide. Many people unintentionally pay this amount, thinking it covers walking trail which is free. Guided tours are also available on-site for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the history and geology of this unique place. Further information can be found here. Ruins of a Castle on the Green Cliff Another attraction of the northern coast is located just a 10-minute drive from Giant’s Causeway. These are the ruins of Dunseverick Castle, which history dates back to the 5th century. The castle was repeatedly attacked by Vikings and destroyed by the Scottish army in the mid-17th century. Supposedly it hasn’t been rebuilt since then. Continuing further east, it’s worth making a short stop at the viewpoint overlooking White Park Bay. Regardless of the weather, the incredible view of the coastline is guaranteed! Adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences will certainly not be disappointed with the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This famous rope bridge spans a deep chasm, offering not only thrills and adrenaline but also spectacular views of the coastline and surrounding cliffs. The suspension bridge is 30 meters above the rocks and connects the small island of Carrickarede to the mainland. It’s considered one of the most dangerous bridges in the world, primarily because its structure is not very stable during high winds. The bridge is now solely a tourist attraction, but for centuries it was used by local fishermen. Built in 1755, its original construction was quite makeshift, consisting only of wooden planks stretched across the chasm, with a single handrail rope. The current structure has been reinforced to allow relatively safe passage. However, on very windy days, the bridge is closed for safety reasons. Practical Information: The bridge is open from spring to autumn, but it’s advisable to check current opening hours before your visit as they may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. There’s an entrance fee for the bridge, and tickets can be purchased online or on-site. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season. Castle – White Head One of the advantages of the Causeway Coastal Route is that attractions are located within about a 10-minute drive from each other. Such a short drive from Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is enough to see the ruins of Kinbane Castle. Kinbane Castle was built in 1547 by Colla MacDonnell of the Scottish MacDonnell clan, lords of the Western Isles of Scotland. The only access point was a descent down the basalt cliff, as the castle was nearly inaccessible from the sea side. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times, and local tradition suggests it may have been inhabited until the 18th century. The name “Kinbane” comes from the Irish “Ceinn Bán,” meaning “white head,” which refers to the rocky limestone headland on top of which the castle sits. From the viewpoint terrace, you can also admire the spectacular cliffs and the nearby Rathlin Island. The Fair Head – Cliffs Overlooking the Island A bit further along is the walking area known as The Fair Head. The Fair Head boasts the highest basalt cliffs in Northern Ireland, reaching heights of up to 200 meters. These cliffs stretch for several kilometers, forming a picturesque landscape that attracts tourists. From here, you can see spectacular views, including the nearby island of Rathlin in all its splendour. Amazing views are also guaranteed from nearby Torr Head. The name Torr in the local Gaelic language means a mound. Torr Head is the furthest point the closest to Scotland. In 1822, a coastguard station was built at the top of the cliff, the ruins of which can be seen today. A steep uphill road leads to the station. From the summit, you can enjoy an incredible view of the coastline. At the end, cliffs once again… At the end of the trip is worth visiting Gobbins Cliffs, located near Belfast. The cliffs are accessed via a path leading through steel walkways suspended over the turbulent sea. The history of the path dates back to the early 20th century. It was designed by engineer Berkeley Deane Wise and opened in 1902. Recently renovated in 2015, it’s now one of the most fascinating attractions in Northern Ireland. The entire route offers unique views of the rocky coastline. The Gobbins Cliffs are open from spring to autumn. Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check current opening hours and ticket availability. Due to high popularity, advance online ticket reservation is recommended as seating is limited for safety reasons. More information, you can find here. Taking a drive along the Causeway Coastal Route is a great idea for exploring Northern Ireland. Each stop along this route presents a fascinating history and incredible views. Some attractions promise a good dose of adrenaline, while others allow you to step back in time and discover the amazing history of Northern Ireland. However, every place offers spectacular views that will stay in your memory for a long time.

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Abandoned chapel – Girl off the Trail

Gosia — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 16:40:10 +0000

The chapel was built in the early 20th century. At first glance, its appearance suggests it’s a Catholic, but in reality, it belongs to the Mariavites. Mariavitism emerged from the Roman Catholic Church in 1906 and is closer to Orthodoxy Church. Currently, it’s estimated that around 20,000 people in Poland practise this religion. The chapel looks quite modest, similar to wooden constructions often seen in places like the Bieszczady Mountains. However, its discreetness is actually an advantage, allowing it to remain unnoticed. Although a lot of time has passed, the chapel makes an amazing impression. White and blue wooden walls give it a celestial character. Stained glass windows create a fascinating play of light depending on the time of day. Wooden columns add to its charm. Many artifacts have been preserved on-site, which is probably why the chapel doesn’t resemble a typical urbex location. On the altar, there are candle holders and vases with artificial flowers that contrast with the white walls. There’s also an open confessional located next to the altar. A picturesque view of the chapel can be seen from the choir balcony accessed by wooden stairs. Just behind the altar is the entrance to a residential part, which is quite dilapidated. Only a bed with bed linen has remained there. Do you like the post? Find out more here!

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Southern Albania – a ship in a field and a thousand windows

Gosia — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 16:35:38 +0000

I start my exploration of southern Albania in quite an unusual way – with a ship docked far from the sea, right in the middle of fields. This extraordinary sight resembles the Titanic in the Atlantic and is an evidence of the boundless Albanian imagination. Berat – “The City of Thousand Windows” In Berat, I stop for a moment to explore the castle ruins. Although little remains of the castle itself, its walls and the surrounding landscape create an incredible atmosphere. However, this is not the end of the attractions in this town. Berat is called “The City of a Thousand Windows,” and the name seems to fit it perfectly. The distinctive white houses with sloping roofs and large windows look incredibly photogenic. Osumi Canyon Continuing my journey along a picturesque mountain road, I reach Osumi Canyon. The canyon makes an incredible impression from the very beginning. Driving along the Osumi River is a true pleasure. Thanks to the river and the erosion it has caused, you can admire high rock walls reaching up to 100 meters. With 26 kilometers of length, there is no shortage of places to explore. The route is dotted with numerous viewpoints from which you can marvel at this amazing place. A popular attraction here is rafting, which is mainly organized in the spring when the water level is sufficient. Gjirokastёr: The City of a Thousand Stairs In Gjirokastёr, my main goal was to visit a Cold War bunker, as I mentioned earlier. However, the city has much more to offer. Gjirokastёr is known as “The City of a Thousand Stairs”. Additionally, Enver Hoxha, the leader of communist Albania from 1944 to 1985, was born here. While this fact may not be the best advertisement for the city, it holds a significant historical context. I’ve written more about Hoxha’s dictatorship and Albanian bunkers in another post. My first steps took me high up to the medieval fortress. Built in the 12th century and later expanded by the Ottomans, the fortress housed a prison for political prisoners during the Cold War era. From the fortress walls and the clock tower, there’s an incredible view of Gjirokastёr’s old town and the surrounding peaks. Inside the fortress, there’s also the wreckage of an American Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star, which made an emergency landing in Albania in 1957. The story of this mission still sparks controversy – whether it was an accidental flight or a reconnaissance mission. According to the American version, the pilot was flying from the military base at Châteauroux in France to Naples, Italy. Along the way, he got lost in dense fog and deviated from his course. Due to fuel shortage, he made an emergency landing in Albania. However, according to Albanian reports, the pilot was on a reconnaissance flight and was intercepted by Albanian People’s Army pilots, forcing him to land. Which version is true? You decide – this is an objective blog, after all! 😄 Returning to Gjirokastёr, this city is worth visiting not only for its charming old town. While Berat is known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Gjirokastёr is dubbed the “City of a Thousand Steps.” The Old Town indeed resembles a labyrinth of narrow and steep streets. For me, Gjirokastёr is particularly memorable for its distinctive architecture featuring white houses with grey roofs. Blue Eye and the Southern Coast On hot days, it’s best to visit the Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye). This spring is named for its resemblance to an eye’s iris. Although swimming is allowed here, few people opt for it due to the water temperature being a chilly 10°C (50°F). Blue Eye is nestled in the mountains, accessible via a short concrete path. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and a dam. Warmer waters, on the other hand, are plentiful along the coast. The southern part of Albania is renowned for excellent conditions for sunbathing and water sports. Unfortunately, during the peak season, the beaches are packed to the brim. Among the most popular are Lori, Paradise, and Ksamil beaches. The southern coast of Albania also offers many historical sites and viewpoints. Below is a picture of Sarandë with the Lëkurësi Castle in the background. The scenic mountainous route through Llogara Pass provides an incredible experience. Route SH8 stretches along the coast at over 1000 meters above sea level, connecting the Dukat Valley with the town of Himarë in the south. Traveling this 45-kilometer stretch offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable journey. On one side of the route, you can admire the Ceraunian Mountains, while on the other, spectacular views of the Ionian Sea unfold. On clear days, you can even see the Greek island of Corfu from here. The road through Llogara Pass is renowned as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Along the way, there are numerous viewpoints and hiking trails. Zvërnec: A Tranquil End to the Journey The final stop of the trip is Zvërnec. It is famous for its picturesque bunkers and the Monastery of St. Mary, located near the Narta Lagoon. The monastery is actually situated on a small island accessible via a wooden bridge. Built in the 13th century, its full name is the Monastery of the Dormition of Theotokos Mary. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for concluding a journey full of experiences in southern Albania.

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