20 best books on abandoned places – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you fascinated by the eerie beauty of abandoned places? Do you find yourself drawn to the mysteries and stories that lie within their decaying walls? If so, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best books about abandoned places that will take you on an unforgettable journey through forgotten worlds. From haunting photographs to gripping narratives, these books capture the haunting allure and melancholic charm of abandoned places like never before. So, grab a cup of tea, curl up on your favorite chair, and get ready to explore the mesmerizing realm of abandoned places through the pages of these extraordinary books.


Abandoned America: Dismantling the Dream

by Matthew Christopher

Are you ready to embark on a hauntingly beautiful journey through forgotten realms? Look no further than “Abandoned America: Dismantling the Dream” by Matthew Christopher. This mesmerizing book transports you deep into the heart of forgotten places, unravelling the mysteries of their decay and capturing their eerie beauty in stunning detail.

As a renowned photographer and urban explorer, Christopher has dedicated his life to documenting the forgotten corners of our world. His passion for abandoned places is palpable in every page, as he takes you on an unforgettable tour of forgotten factories, crumbling mansions, and decaying hospitals.

But this book is so much more than just a collection of photographs. Christopher’s keen eye for detail and his ability to tell a story through his images is what truly sets “Abandoned America” apart. Each chapter is filled with captivating stories and historical insights that shed light on the rise and fall of these once-majestic locations.

From the rusted remains of a forgotten steel mill to the faded grandeur of a forgotten theater, “Abandoned America” offers a glimpse into a world that time forgot. Through Christopher’s lens, you’ll witness the haunting beauty that emerges when nature reclaims what was once man-made.

Whether you’re a fan of urban exploration, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty in decay, this book is a must-read. “Abandoned America: Dismantling the Dream” is a love letter to forgotten places, a tribute to their enduring allure, and a reminder that even in abandonment, there is still beauty to be found.

Ghostland: An American History in Haunted Places

by Colin Dickey

If you have a fascination for the eerie and the unknown, then Colin Dickey’s Ghostland: An American History in Haunted Places is the perfect book for you. This captivating exploration takes you on a spine-chilling journey through the dark corners of America, revealing the stories and secrets that lie hidden within its abandoned and haunted places.

Through meticulous research and masterful storytelling, Dickey uncovers the rich history and cultural significance behind these ghostly locations. From decrepit asylums to forgotten hotels, each chapter unravels the mysteries and legends that have woven themselves into the very fabric of these abandoned sites. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for capturing the essence of these places, Dickey paints a vivid picture of America’s haunted past.

But Ghostland is not merely a book about abandoned places; it delves deeper into the collective consciousness of a nation. Dickey explores how these haunted sites reflect the fears, anxieties, and unresolved histories of the American people. Each ghost story becomes a portal into the darker aspects of American culture, offering a unique perspective on the social, political, and psychological forces that shaped the nation.

With a blend of historical analysis, personal anecdotes, and spine-tingling tales, Dickey creates a captivating narrative that will leave you both enthralled and uneasy. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, Ghostland is an irresistible invitation to explore the abandoned corners of America and confront the lingering spirits that haunt its forgotten places.

The World Without Us

by Alan Weisman

The World Without Us by Alan Weisman is an utterly fascinating journey into a world where humans no longer exist. Imagine a planet where bustling cities, towering skyscrapers, and bustling streets are replaced by nature’s reclamation. This thought-provoking book takes you on an awe-inspiring exploration of abandoned places, where nature has taken over and reclaimed its dominion.

Lost Cities

by Paul G. Bahn

Welcome to the mysterious world of Lost Cities! If you have ever been captivated by the allure of forgotten civilizations and the stories they hold, then this is the book for you. Paul G. Bahn takes us on a thrilling journey through time and space, uncovering the secrets of ancient civilizations that have long been abandoned and left in ruins.

Lost Cities is not just another book about abandoned places – it is a treasure trove of fascinating tales and breathtaking photographs that will transport you to the heart of these forgotten realms. From the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, hidden deep in the jungles of Guatemala, to the ghostly remnants of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Bahn explores the history, myths, and legends that surround these abandoned wonders.

With each turn of the page, you will be drawn further into the enigmatic world of lost cities, their grandeur and decay captured in vivid detail. Bahn’s meticulous research and evocative storytelling bring these abandoned places back to life, allowing you to imagine the bustling streets, majestic temples, and vibrant cultures that once thrived within these now desolate landscapes.

Whether you are an avid explorer of abandoned places or simply curious about the mysteries of the past, Lost Cities is a must-read. It will ignite your imagination, ignite your curiosity, and leave you yearning to uncover more hidden wonders of the world. So grab your hat, pack your bags, and join Paul G. Bahn on this unforgettable adventure through the forgotten realms of Lost Cities.

Abandoned Places: A Photographic Exploration of More Than 100 Worlds We Have Left Behind

by Kieron Connolly

Step into the forgotten and decaying world of abandoned places with Kieron Connolly’s captivating book on forsaken landscapes. Abandoned Places: A Photographic Exploration of More Than 100 Worlds We Have Left Behind is a mesmerizing journey through forgotten realms, where crumbling buildings and overgrown landscapes tell stories of past glory and present neglect.

This captivating book about abandoned places takes readers on a visual adventure through more than 100 forgotten locations. From derelict asylums to forgotten amusement parks, each page unveils a hauntingly beautiful snapshot of places that time has forgotten.

Connolly’s stunning photography captures the eerie beauty and melancholic atmosphere of these abandoned places, showcasing their captivating and haunting allure. Each image tells a story of human existence and the passage of time, inviting readers to imagine the stories that lie within.

As you turn each page, you’ll be transported to a different world, exploring forgotten mansions, crumbling factories, and decaying theaters. The book’s vivid imagery allows you to step into these abandoned places and witness the solemn beauty that remains.

Through his meticulous research and accompanying text, Connolly delves into the history and significance of each location, shedding light on their rise and fall. From industrial decline to changing societal values, Abandoned Places provides insight into the factors that led to the abandonment of these once-thriving sites.

Whether you have an interest in history, urban exploration, or simply appreciate the allure of abandoned places, this book is a must-read. It offers a unique perspective on forgotten worlds, reminding us of the impermanence of human existence and the ever-changing nature of our surroundings.

So, prepare to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the forgotten realms of our world. Abandoned Places: A Photographic Exploration of More Than 100 Worlds We Have Left Behind is the ultimate guide to the hauntingly beautiful and mysterious landscapes that time has left behind.

The Ruins of Detroit

by Yves Marchand and Romain Meffre

The Ruins of Detroit, a captivating book on abandoned places, takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the forgotten and decaying remnants of a once-thriving city. Photographers Yves Marchand and Romain Meffre have carefully documented the haunting beauty found within the ruins of Detroit, capturing the essence of a city that has been left behind.

Abandoned: The Most Beautiful Forgotten Places from Around the World

by Mathew Growcoot

Abandoned: The Most Beautiful Forgotten Places from Around the World by Mathew Growcoot is an extraordinary journey through the hidden and mysterious worlds of forgotten locations. This captivating book is a treasure trove of stunning photographs and compelling stories, taking readers on a visual and emotional exploration of the mesmerizing beauty found in abandoned places.

With each turn of the page, you will be transported to forgotten cities, forgotten mansions, and forgotten landmarks. From decaying hospitals to crumbling castles, from deserted amusement parks to abandoned factories, this book is a visual feast for the eyes and a window into the past.

But Abandoned is not just a book about abandoned places. It is a celebration of the resilience of nature and the enduring power of human imagination. Through the lens of Mathew Growcoot’s camera, these forgotten places come alive with a haunting beauty that is both melancholic and awe-inspiring.

What sets Abandoned apart from other books on abandoned places is its unique focus on the inherent beauty found in decay. Growcoot’s photographs capture the intricate details of peeling paint, overgrown vegetation, and crumbling architecture, revealing the hidden artistry that emerges when nature reclaims its space.

As you delve into the pages of this mesmerizing book, you will discover the stories behind each abandoned place, uncovering the secrets and histories that have been lost to time. It is a journey that will ignite your curiosity and leave you with a profound sense of wonder.

Abandoned: The Most Beautiful Forgotten Places from Around the World is not just a book; it is an invitation to explore the forgotten corners of our world, to appreciate the beauty that can be found in decay, and to reflect on the transient nature of human existence. So, embark on this extraordinary adventure and let the abandoned places of the world captivate your imagination.

The Atlas of Lost Cities: A Travel Guide to Abandoned and Forsaken Destinations

by Aude de Tocqueville

The Atlas of Lost Cities: A Travel Guide to Abandoned and Forsaken Destinations by Aude de Tocqueville is a captivating journey through the forgotten corners of the world. If you have an unquenchable thirst for adventure and a fascination with the mysteries of the past, this book is an absolute gem.

Step into the shoes of an intrepid explorer as you flip through the pages of this mesmerizing tome. With stunning photography and eloquent prose, de Tocqueville transports you to a myriad of forsaken locales, each with its own haunting story to tell.

This isn’t just any ordinary travel guide – it’s a captivating anthology of lost civilizations, forgotten ruins, and ghostly towns. From the eerie remnants of Pompeii to the desolate beauty of Machu Picchu, the author takes you on a spellbinding journey through time and space.

Discover the secrets hidden within the crumbling walls of abandoned castles, wander through the silent streets of deserted villages, and marvel at the decaying grandeur of once-majestic cities. Whether you’re a history buff, an urban explorer, or simply someone with a penchant for the extraordinary, you’ll find yourself utterly enthralled.

With each turn of the page, you’ll be transported to a different era, immersing yourself in the forgotten stories of those who once called these abandoned places home. De Tocqueville’s meticulous research and vivid descriptions breathe life into these lost cities, leaving you with a profound sense of awe and reverence.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey like no other, grab a copy of The Atlas of Lost Cities: A Travel Guide to Abandoned and Forsaken Destinations. This extraordinary book is a testament to the enduring allure of abandoned places, and will ignite your imagination in ways you never thought possible.

Forgotten Places: Barcelona and the Spanish Civil War

by Nick Lloyd

Step into the forgotten corners of Barcelona, where the shadows of the past still linger. In his captivating book on abandoned places, Nick Lloyd takes us on a haunting journey through the streets of this vibrant city, unveiling the secrets and stories that lie hidden beneath its surface.

Forgotten Places: Barcelona and the Spanish Civil War is not just a book about abandoned places; it is a glimpse into a tumultuous era that shaped the history of Spain. As you turn the pages, you will be transported back to the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, when Barcelona was a hotbed of political unrest and social upheaval.

Lloyd’s vivid descriptions and stunning photographs capture the eerie beauty of these abandoned spaces, from crumbling buildings and forgotten factories to hidden bunkers and underground tunnels. Each image tells a story, evoking a sense of the past and inviting us to imagine the lives of those who once inhabited these places.

But this book is more than just a visual exploration; it is a journey of discovery. Lloyd delves into the history of each location, unraveling the mysteries and legends that surround them. From the iconic Montjuïc Castle to the forgotten bomb shelters beneath the city, every chapter offers a fascinating insight into Barcelona’s past.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an urban explorer, or simply curious about the hidden side of Barcelona, Forgotten Places is a must-read. This abandoned places book will transport you to a world that time forgot, where the echoes of the past still resonate in the present.

Abandoned Places: 60 Stories of Places Where Time Stopped

by Richard Happer

Step into a world frozen in time with Richard Happer’s mesmerizing book on forgotten and forsaken locations. Abandoned Places: 60 Stories of Places Where Time Stopped is a captivating journey through the eerie and haunting remnants of our past. This extraordinary book about abandoned places unveils the secrets of forgotten civilizations, crumbling mansions, desolate theme parks, and decaying factories.

Prepare to be enthralled as you flip through the pages of this abandoned places book, taking in the stunning photography that captures the beauty and melancholy of each location. Happer’s vivid descriptions transport you to a realm where nature triumphs over man-made structures, and history whispers its tales through the cracked walls.

From the towering ruins of ancient temples to the rusted carcasses of once-mighty ships, this book is a treasure trove of forgotten wonders. Happer’s meticulous research and storytelling skills breathe life into these abandoned places, allowing you to become a witness to the rise and fall of civilizations, to explore the remnants of once-thriving communities, and to ponder the mysteries that surround them.

Whether you are a seasoned urban explorer or simply curious about the hidden corners of our world, Abandoned Places is a must-have for your collection. Let the allure of these abandoned places captivate your imagination as you embark on a journey through time and discover the stories that lie within each crumbling facade.

Dive into this mesmerizing book about abandoned places and unlock the secrets of forgotten worlds. Abandoned Places: 60 Stories of Places Where Time Stopped is your passport to a ghostly realm where the past comes alive and the present fades away. It’s time to explore the forgotten, the forsaken, and the hauntingly beautiful.

The World’s Most Haunted Places: From the Secret Files of Ghostvillage.com

by Jeff Belanger

Step into the eerie world of the supernatural with The World’s Most Haunted Places: From the Secret Files of Ghostvillage.com by Jeff Belanger. This spine-chilling book is a treasure trove of stories and legends surrounding some of the most haunted locations on Earth.

Delve into the pages of this captivating book on abandoned places and prepare to be both fascinated and frightened. Belanger, an expert in the paranormal, takes readers on a journey to explore the mysteries and ghostly happenings within these eerie sites.

From ancient castles to decaying asylums, this book about abandoned places uncovers the dark secrets and paranormal encounters that have plagued these locations for centuries. With detailed accounts and chilling photographs, Belanger brings each haunted place to life, allowing readers to experience the hair-raising stories firsthand.

Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply curious about the supernatural, The World’s Most Haunted Places is a must-read. Get ready to be captivated by the tales of restless spirits, unexplained phenomena, and the unrelenting presence of the unknown. This abandoned places book will leave you questioning the boundaries between the living and the dead.

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums

by Michael W. Cuneo

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums by Michael W. Cuneo is a captivating journey into the hidden world of forgotten institutions. This mesmerizing book uncovers the secrets and untold stories of orphan asylums, those eerie and mysterious abandoned places that are shrouded in both history and intrigue.

Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Cuneo explores the forgotten lives of the children who once resided within these walls. He delves into the harsh realities faced by the orphans, the struggles they endured, and the haunting memories that still linger within these abandoned places.

With a keen eye for detail, Cuneo paints a vivid picture of the crumbling architecture, overgrown gardens, and decaying remnants of these once bustling institutions. As the reader journeys through the corridors of these forgotten buildings, they are transported to a bygone era, where hope and despair coexisted within the same walls.

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums is not just a book about abandoned places; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the forgotten stories that lie within the ruins. Cuneo’s evocative prose and compelling narratives will leave you breathless, as you uncover the hidden depths of these abandoned places and the lives they once sheltered.

Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation

by G.M. Best

Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation is a captivating book that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through forgotten landscapes, exploring the haunting allure of abandoned places.

This extraordinary publication, penned by the talented author G.M. Best, offers a unique perspective on these forgotten corners of the world. With stunning photography and eloquent prose, Best uncovers the hidden stories and intricate details of each abandoned location, shedding light on their mysterious pasts.

From crumbling castles to forgotten ghost towns, Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation showcases the astonishing beauty that can be found in decay. Each page is a visual feast, immersing readers in the eerie and melancholic atmosphere of these forsaken places.

Whether you are an urban explorer, a history enthusiast, or simply someone with an appreciation for the enigmatic, this book about abandoned places is a must-read. Best’s vivid descriptions and evocative imagery will transport you to these lost worlds, igniting your imagination and leaving you yearning to uncover more.

Prepare to be spellbound as you delve into the pages of Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation. This captivating book will not only enlighten and entertain you but also awaken a newfound fascination for the forgotten and the abandoned.

Abandoned America: The Age of Consequences

by Matthew Christopher

Abandoned America: The Age of Consequences by Matthew Christopher is a captivating book that takes you on a mesmerizing journey through forgotten landscapes and deserted spaces.

With stunning photography and vivid storytelling, this book immerses you into the eerie beauty of abandoned places – forgotten factories, dilapidated hospitals, crumbling schools, and deserted churches. Christopher’s lens captures the haunting essence of these forgotten worlds, where time stands still and nature slowly reclaims what was once man-made.

But this book is more than just a collection of captivating images. It delves into the consequences of our actions, shining a light on the repercussions of neglect and the societal impact of abandoned spaces. Through thought-provoking narratives, Christopher raises questions about the cost of progress and the vulnerability of our built environment.

Whether you’re an urban explorer, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the hidden stories behind abandoned places, this book is a must-read. It offers a unique perspective on the forgotten corners of our world, reminding us of the power of time and the fragility of our creations.

Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West

by Lambert Florin

Step into the past and explore the forgotten remnants of the Wild West with Lambert Florin’s captivating book on abandoned places, Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West. This fascinating tome takes readers on a journey through the desolate landscapes of the American West, where once-thriving communities have been reduced to mere echoes of their former glory.

Florin’s masterful storytelling and stunning photography bring these abandoned places to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the eerie atmosphere of ghost towns. With each turn of the page, you’ll uncover the stories of gold rushes, frontier settlements, and the ultimate demise of these once-vibrant towns.

But Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West is not just a book about abandoned places; it’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of the pioneers who carved out a living in the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of the West. Through Florin’s expertly crafted narrative, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the hardships faced by these early settlers, and the indelible mark they left on the history of the Old West.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of photography, or simply someone with a curiosity for the forgotten, this abandoned places book is sure to captivate your imagination. So grab a copy of Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West and embark on a thrilling adventure through the crumbling facades and dusty streets of a bygone era.

Abandoned Places: A Photographic Exploration of More Than 100 Worlds We Have Left Behind

by Richard Happer

Step into a world forgotten by time in Richard Happer’s mesmerizing abandoned places book. In this captivating journey, Happer takes readers on a visual exploration of over 100 forgotten realms, each with its own fascinating story to tell. Through his lens, he captures the haunting beauty of forgotten hospitals, crumbling castles, decaying amusement parks, and other worlds we have left behind. From the moment you open this book on abandoned places, you’ll be transported to a realm where nature and decay intertwine, and where the echoes of the past whisper their secrets. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of these forgotten spaces, as Happer’s stunning photography brings these forgotten realms back to life.

The World’s Most Haunted Places: From the Secret Files of Ghostvillage.com

by Jeff Belanger

The World’s Most Haunted Places: From the Secret Files of Ghostvillage.com by Jeff Belanger is not just your average book about abandoned places. No, this spine-chilling read delves deep into the mysterious and eerie world of the supernatural. If you have a fascination with ghosts, spirits, and things that go bump in the night, then this is the abandoned places book you’ve been waiting for!

Belanger, a renowned paranormal investigator and founder of Ghostvillage.com, takes us on a hair-raising journey to some of the most haunted locations around the globe. From ancient castles to abandoned asylums, each chapter uncovers the chilling tales and unexplainable phenomena that have plagued these sites for centuries.

But what sets this book on abandoned places apart is its unique approach. Belanger combines historical research, eyewitness accounts, and personal experiences to paint a vivid picture of each haunting. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, the stories within these pages will leave you questioning the boundaries of our reality.

Prepare to be captivated by tales of ghostly apparitions, poltergeists, and unexplained paranormal activity. The World’s Most Haunted Places is a spine-tingling exploration that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover what lies beyond the realm of the living.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a thrilling adventure into the unknown, grab a cup of tea, dim the lights, and immerse yourself in this captivating abandoned places book. Just be sure to keep the lights on…

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums

by Michael W. Cuneo

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums by Michael W. Cuneo is a captivating journey into the mysterious and haunting world of forgotten institutions known as orphan asylums. This mesmerizing book explores the dark corners of these abandoned places, shedding light on their forgotten stories and untold secrets.

Step into the eerie hallways and crumbling rooms of these forgotten structures as Cuneo uncovers the hidden history behind them. With vivid descriptions and meticulous research, he brings to life the ghosts of the past, revealing the emotional and often heart-wrenching tales of the orphans who once called these asylums home.

Cuneo’s writing style is both gripping and evocative, transporting readers to a time long gone and a world seldom explored. His passion for abandoned places shines through every page, as he weaves together personal narratives, historical accounts, and expert interviews to create a comprehensive and captivating narrative.

Through his exploration of these abandoned places, Cuneo delves into the larger societal questions surrounding the treatment of orphans and the impact of institutionalization. He challenges readers to confront the haunting legacy of these asylums and to question the systems that allowed such places to exist.

Abandoned: The Untold Story of Orphan Asylums is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigmatic allure of abandoned places. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of true crime, or simply someone drawn to the eerie beauty of forgotten architecture, this book will leave you spellbound.

Prepare to embark on a journey into the hidden world of orphan asylums with Cuneo as your guide. Uncover the secrets, unravel the mysteries, and discover the untold stories that lie within these abandoned places.

Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation

by G.M. Best

Lost Cities: Beauty in Desolation is a mesmerizing book on abandoned places that takes readers on a captivating journey through forgotten realms. With stunning photography and compelling narratives, this book about abandoned places uncovers the hidden allure and haunting elegance of these forsaken locations.

Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West

by Lambert Florin

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the forgotten remnants of the Old West? Look no further than Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West, an incredible book on abandoned places that will transport you to a world long gone.

In this mesmerizing book about abandoned places, Lambert Florin takes you on a captivating tour of ghost towns scattered across the vast landscapes of the Old West. With stunning photography and meticulously researched historical accounts, Florin brings these abandoned settlements back to life, allowing you to witness their rise, fall, and ultimate demise.

From the desolate streets of Bodie, California, to the eerie ruins of St. Elmo, Colorado, each page of this abandoned places book holds a captivating story waiting to be discovered. You’ll learn about the gold rushes that once drew thousands of hopeful miners, the ruthless outlaws who terrorized these forgotten towns, and the everyday lives of the people who called these places home.

But this book is more than just a collection of tales from the past. It’s a window into a world of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the Old West. As you explore the crumbling buildings and weathered streets, you’ll be transported to a time when life was harsh, yet filled with the promise of adventure and opportunity.

So, grab a copy of Ghost Towns: Lost Cities of the Old West and let Lambert Florin be your guide to these forgotten places. Get ready to immerse yourself in the history, mystery, and haunting beauty of the abandoned towns that still whisper their stories in the winds of the West.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about abandoned places will take you on a fascinating journey into the hidden world of forgotten spaces. From crumbling castles to ghost towns and derelict asylums, these literary works offer a unique perspective on the beauty and mystery of abandonment. Whether you’re an urban explorer or simply intrigued by the forgotten stories of the past, these books will captivate your imagination. So grab a copy, delve into the pages, and embark on a thrilling adventure into the haunting allure of abandoned places.