49 Abandoned Landmarks That Are More Beautiful Than Ever

3. Craco – Basilicata, Italy

Craco isn’t just an abandoned town—it’s a ghostly vision of medieval elegance frozen in mid-collapse. Perched precariously on a hilltop in Italy’s Basilicata region, this once-bustling village dates back to the 8th century. Its strategic location made it ideal for defense, but it also rendered it highly susceptible to natural disasters. Landslides in the 1960s, followed by earthquakes and floods, finally forced residents to evacuate. What remains is a hauntingly intact skyline of towers, chapels, and stone homes that seem to gaze over the valley like petrified guardians. The interiors of buildings still bear traces of everyday life: rusted iron beds, broken pottery, faded murals. Craco’s unique appearance has drawn filmmakers, making it the backdrop for numerous movies and a haven for photographers and history buffs. As the sun sets behind its crumbling bell tower, Craco’s beauty only grows deeper—rich in silence, memory, and mystery.