Haunted destinations around the world

For the enthusiast who favors excitement and the macabre, these destinations are brimming with intriguing histories and ghostly tales that promise to captivate and chill.

1. Catacombs of Paris

Paris, France

In the late 18th century, Paris grappled with a dire public health crisis caused by overcrowded cemeteries, leading to outbreaks of disease. Authorities responded by relocating remains to the underground quarry known as Tombe-Issoire in the Montrouge district. Officially named the Paris Municipal Ossuary, this subterranean network of tunnels is more commonly known as the “Catacombs”, a nod to the ancient Roman catacombs. Open to the public since 1810, the catacombs now attract visitors with a taste for the macabre.

Plan to visit Catacomb in Paris? Fly there with Thai Airways!

2. The Basilica Cistern

Istanbul, Türkiye

Descending a 55-step staircase from Istanbul’s lively streets, you’ll discover a 6th-century cistern commissioned by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. This underground marvel features 336 marble columns and a striking Medusa head. While it is not steeped in legend, the dimly lit space, frigid air, and the eerie sound of dripping water from the 30-foot-high vaulted ceiling create a spine-chilling atmosphere.

Inspire to explore Basilica Cistern? Fly to Türkiye with Thai Airways!

3. Sedlec Ossuary

Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

At first glance, this modest Gothic church might seem unremarkable, but step inside and you’ll encounter a unique and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The interior is adorned with intricate artwork crafted from thousands of human bones. This unusual tradition dates back to 1278 when the church’s abbot returned from Jerusalem with Holy Soil, sparking a desire among locals to be interred in this sacred ground. Consequently, the church’s underground catacombs became a repository for numerous skeletal remains. In 1870, carpenter Frantisek Rint was commissioned to transform these bones into a stunning interior decor. His remarkable creations include elaborate chandeliers, mobiles, and intricately decorated walls, making the church a fascinating destination for those intrigued by both history and art.

Plan to explore Sedlec Ossuary? Thai Airways, in cooperation with Star Alliance partner provide daily flight from Bangkok to Prague via Istanbul.

4. The Tower of London

London, United Kingdom

Built nearly a thousand years ago by King William I the Conquerer, the Tower of London has served various roles: a royal residence, a fortress, and later, a prison and execution site. The grim history of this iconic landmark has given rise to numerous ghost stories. The most famous apparition is that of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, who was executed in 1536 and is said to haunt the tower as a headless specter.

Let’s visit The Tower of London, fly to London with Thai Airways!

5. Hashima Island

Nagasaki, Japan

Hashima Island, often referred to as Gunkanjima or “Battleship Island,” stands out among the 505 uninhabited islands in Nagasaki. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, this island was once the heart of Japan’s coal mining industry. At its peak, Hashima was bustling with over 5,000 residents. However, as the coal mines were decommissioned and energy demands shifted, the island’s population dwindled, leading to its abandonment. Today, the eerie remnants of its industrial past have turned Hashima Island into a globally renowned haunted tourist attraction, captivating visitors with its ghostly allure and fascinating history.

Plan to visit Hashima Island? Fly to Fukuoka with Thai Airways!