Adrian Berlutti
Time has a way of reclaiming what was once built, leaving behind silent echoes of forgotten lives and lost civilizations. On scattered islands across the world, crumbling walls and deserted streets still stand as quiet storytellers of the past. Each ruin holds secrets—of ambition, tragedy, or the slow passage of time—waiting to be uncovered. Step into the mystery as we explore 10 islands where ruins whisper tales of the past.
Hashima Island, Japan
Once a booming coal-mining hub, Hashima Island symbolized Japan’s rapid industrialization. At its peak in the 1950s, over 5,000 people squeezed onto this tiny rock. It was one of the most densely populated places on Earth. When petroleum replaced coal, the mine shut down in 1974, leaving the island abandoned.
Suakin Island, Sudan
Its coral-built structures create a striking sight, with intricate carvings hinting at its once-grand architecture. In its prime, merchants and sailors filled its bustling streets. However, as more accessible ports emerged, Suakin’s importance declined. While parts of the island now feel eerily quiet, restoration efforts are ongoing, and some areas are still inhabited and visited.
Nan Madol, Federated States Of Micronesia
Nan Madol is an ancient marvel of engineering built atop a series of artificial islands. Massive basalt block walls and canals once formed the heart of the Saudeleur Dynasty. Political decline and resource depletion likely led to its abandonment, leaving behind one of history’s most intriguing ruins.
Jaco Island, East Timor
Off the coast of East Timor, Jaco Island remains shrouded in cultural significance and mystery. Once frequented by local fishing communities, it was eventually left untouched due to spiritual beliefs. Today, crumbling remnants of past settlements can still be found, and the island stands as a pristine paradise lost to time.
Delos Island, Greece
Delos Island is a remarkable archaeological site with deep mythological roots. It was once a major religious and trade center. Over time, economic decline and pirate attacks led to its abandonment. Visitors can still explore ancient temples and the famous Terrace of the Lions. The island offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Gemiler Island, Turkey
Gemiler Island hides its history beneath layers of overgrown vegetation, but the ruins of Byzantine churches still stand firm against time. Built between the fourth and sixth centuries, these churches were once pilgrimage sites, possibly linked to Saint Nicholas. Rising sea levels have partially submerged some ruins, adding an ethereal quality to the landscape.
Ross Island, India
Ross Island, once the bustling administrative hub of the British in the Andaman Islands, was known for its grand colonial buildings. However, in 1941, a devastating 8.1 magnitude earthquake struck, and the island was further ravaged during the Japanese occupation in World War II. These events ultimately led to its abandonment.
King Island, USA
Perched on the cliffs of the Bering Sea, King Island was once home to a thriving Inupiat community. The Inupiat built their village on stilts, with wooden houses precariously balanced above the rocky terrain. The village was frozen in time when the government forced relocation in the 1950s.
Eynhallow, Scotland (UK)
The ruins of Eynhallow hold mystery. The island was abandoned in the 19th century, but legends of supernatural beings called the Finfolk continue to surround it. The stone walls of its abandoned buildings remain standing. Only accessible for a single day each summer, Eynhallow’s eerie atmosphere and historical intrigue make it an unforgettable visit.
Gyaros, Greece
Used as a prison island for political dissidents from the 1940s to the 1970s, it saw thousands endure isolation and hardship. The massive penitentiary still looms over the barren landscape, its walls covered in the graffiti of former inmates. The silence that blankets the island speaks volumes about the suffering there.
