26 Forgotten Villages Around the World Being Reclaimed by Nature

8. The Resilient Ruins of Ani, Turkey

Ani, once a bustling city on the Silk Road, now lies in ruins on the Turkish-Armenian border. Known as the "City of 1001 Churches," Ani was a center of commerce and culture in the medieval period. However, invasions, earthquakes, and changing trade routes led to its decline. Today, the ruins of Ani stand as a testament to its former glory, with remnants of churches, fortresses, and homes scattered across the landscape. Nature has begun to reclaim the city, with wildflowers and grasses growing among the ruins. Ani's story is a reminder of the impermanence of human achievements and the enduring beauty of nature.