The Dark Side of Earth: 23+ Forbidden Places That Will Give You Chills

Do You Dare To Visit? From Abandoned Cities To Government Secrets We Were Never Meant To See

The world is full of intriguing places, but some are so dangerous, mysterious, or restricted that they are strictly off-limits to the public.These forbidden places hold an irresistible fascination for many people, who are drawn to their secrecy, danger, and intrigue. Some of these locations are inaccessible due to their extreme isolation, while others are closely guarded by governments, corporations, or private individuals. Many of these places are shrouded in secrecy, with their true nature and purpose remaining unknown to the outside world.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the most forbidden places on Earth. From deathly islands and secret clubs to government secrets, scary places, and even islands with hidden populations, this list covers a wide range of locations that are off-limits to the general public. Some of these places are famous for their danger, while others are famous for their mystery and intrigue.

Whether due to their danger, mystery, or secrecy, the forbidden places on this list are sure to capture the imagination of anyone who loves adventure, exploration, and the unknown. So, get ready to explore some of the most intriguing and dangerous places on Earth, but remember, proceed with caution, as accessing some of these places can lead to severe consequences.

1. Area 51

In the vast expanse of the Nevada desert, 75 miles north of Las Vegas, there lies a mysterious land parcel known as Area 51. Secluded just outside the abandoned Nevada Test and Training Range, this place has witnessed over 100 atmospheric nuclear tests during the 1950s. The base was established during the Cold War for spy reconnaissance planes, and its engineers developed advanced aircraft, including the U-2 and the A-12. But here’s the catch – the US government has never officially acknowledged its existence!

Area 51 has been the subject of countless conspiracy theories and wild rumors for decades. Some say that the government uses the base to study alien technology and conduct top-secret experiments on extraterrestrial lifeforms. Others believe that the base is a testing ground for advanced military weaponry and vehicles, such as the stealth bomber and the unmanned aerial drone. Whatever the truth may be, one thing is certain: Area 51 is shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

Despite its top-secret nature, Area 51 has become something of a tourist attraction in recent years. Visitors flock to the area in hopes of catching a glimpse of something strange and otherworldly. Some even attempt to breach the base’s highly restricted perimeter, only to be met with armed guards and harsh legal repercussions. Still, the allure of Area 51 persists, and many continue to wonder what secrets lie hidden within its walls.

2. Svalbard Global Seed Vault

Picture this: You’re wandering through a remote, snow-covered landscape, surrounded by towering mountains and glistening glaciers. You approach a forbidding, nondescript building built into the side of a mountain. A metal door slides open, and you catch a glimpse of an endless tunnel stretching deep into the rock. This is no ordinary place – this is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, and it’s one of the most forbidden locations on Earth.

The Seed Vault is designed to protect the world’s crop diversity in case of a global catastrophe, such as a natural disaster, nuclear war, or disease outbreak. It stores millions of seeds from every corner of the globe, from rare varieties of wheat and rice to exotic fruits and vegetables. The vault’s remote location and high level of security ensure that the precious seeds remain safe and protected for generations to come.

But despite its vital importance, the Seed Vault is strictly off-limits to the public. Only a handful of scientists and researchers are allowed to enter, and even they must pass through a series of rigorous security checks and procedures. The facility is designed to be as self-sufficient as possible, with its own backup power supply and cooling system, and is built to withstand almost any kind of disaster. By maintaining a low level of metabolic activity, which is facilitated by the combination of low temperature and moisture, the seeds can remain viable for several decades, centuries, and in some instances, thousands of years. It’s a place that represents both the hope and the fear of the future – and one that remains forever shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

3. Snake Island

Nestled off the coast of Brazil lies a place that few dare to venture – Snake Island. This small, uninhabited island is home to one of the deadliest creatures on the planet – the golden lancehead pit viper. With a venom that’s five times more potent than that of its mainland counterparts, the golden lancehead is one of the deadliest snakes in the world. And on Snake Island, it’s the only game in town.

For this reason, Snake Island is one of the most forbidden places on the planet. The Brazilian government strictly prohibits anyone from setting foot on the island, and even the most intrepid adventurers are discouraged from attempting to explore its shores. The venom of the golden lancehead is so potent that a single bite can cause rapid tissue damage, kidney failure, melting human flesh and even ultimately death. And with an estimated 4,000 snakes living on the island, the risk of encountering one is just too great.

Despite its forbidding reputation, Snake Island remains a place of fascination and intrigue for many. Scientists are eager to study the golden lancehead and unlock the secrets of its venom, while thrill-seekers dream of one day setting foot on its shores. But for now, Snake Island remains off-limits – a place of mystery, danger, and forbidden allure.

4. The Vatican Secret Archives

Descend deep beneath the Vatican City and you’ll find yourself in a place shrouded in enigma and fascination – The Vatican Secret Archives. This covert repository is home to millions of documents, spanning over a millennium of history, and allegedly contains some of the Catholic Church’s most closely guarded secrets. It’s no wonder then, that the archives are amongst the most heavily secured places on the planet.

But gaining entry to The Vatican Secret Archives is no mean feat, with only a select few granted permission to access this treasured trove. Scholars are only permitted entry once they have reached the age of 75 and authorized academics must pass through a designated entry point, flanked by the formidable Swiss Guard. Once inside, they’re accompanied to the archives where they can only view a maximum of three documents per day, subject to prior request. It’s no wonder the secrets held within these walls are kept so closely guarded.

5. North Sentinel Island

Imagine a remote island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, where the inhabitants have lived in isolation for thousands of years, completely cut off from the modern world. This is North Sentinel Island, one of the most forbidden places on Earth. The island is home to the Sentinelese tribe, one of the last remaining uncontacted tribes in the world. And they are fiercely protective of their isolation.

Attempts to make contact with the Sentinelese have been met with hostility and violence. The islanders have been known to attack anyone who comes too close, and have even killed a number of intruders over the years. In fact, the Indian government has declared the island off-limits to all outsiders, and anyone caught attempting to make contact with the tribe faces severe legal consequences.

The Sentinelese have lived on the island for an estimated 60,000 years, and their way of life has remained largely unchanged over that time. They rely on fishing and hunting for their survival, and have developed a unique culture and language. But their way of life is under threat, as the outside world encroaches on their isolated home. For now, the Indian government has pledged to protect the island and its inhabitants, and North Sentinel Island remains one of the world’s most intriguing and forbidden places.

6. The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Welcome to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – the most heavily fortified border in the world! This 160-mile-long strip of land separates North and South Korea, and it’s strictly forbidden to enter. But if you’re feeling daring and adventurous, I say let’s go for it! Just make sure you’ve got your special permit and some good luck on your side.

Now, don’t be fooled by the name – the DMZ is far from peaceful. It’s a dangerous place, with the area heavily landmined and strictly under military control. But, on the bright side, the DMZ is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including many endangered species, making it a sanctuary of sorts. So, keep your eyes peeled for some furry or feathery friends while you’re there.

But why risk life and limb to visit the DMZ, you may ask? Well, visitors from all over the world are flocking to this forbidden zone to witness the stark contrast between the two Koreas and to learn about the history and politics of the region. The DMZ is not only a symbol of the division of the Korean peninsula but also a potential flashpoint for conflict between North and South Korea. So, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflict and the need for continued efforts to achieve peace and reunification. Do you dare to go?

7. Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

In 1986, the world watched in horror as the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded, spewing radiation across the surrounding area. In the aftermath of the disaster, the Soviet government established an exclusion zone around the site, forbidding anyone from entering the area due to the high levels of radiation. And to this day, the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone remains one of the most forbidden places on Earth.

Despite the danger, there are those who are drawn to the zone’s eerie and desolate landscape. The abandoned buildings, rusted machinery, and overgrown forests are a haunting reminder of the disaster that occurred there. And while the Ukrainian government strictly regulates access to the zone, it has become a popular destination for thrill-seekers and adventure travelers.

But the dangers of the exclusion zone cannot be overstated. Even brief exposure to the high levels of radiation in the area can have serious health consequences, including cancer and other diseases. But despite the danger, there are those who are drawn to the exclusion zone’s eerie and desolate landscape. Some venture into the zone as part of guided tours, while others sneak in illegally, seeking adventure and the thrill of exploration. However, the risks of radiation exposure are very real, and visitors to the exclusion zone must take great care to protect themselves. For most of us, the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone remains a forbidden place, a haunting reminder of the dangers of nuclear power and the devastating impact of human error.

8. The Maunsell Sea Forts

In the middle of the North Sea, off the coast of the UK, stand the Maunsell Sea Forts. These towering steel structures were built during World War II to protect the country from German attacks, but have long since been abandoned. Today, they stand as a testament to a bygone era, and a reminder of the brutal realities of war. But despite their intriguing history and unique architecture, the Maunsell Sea Forts remain a forbidden place as they are now unsave.

The forts were decommissioned in the 1950s and 60s, and have been abandoned ever since. The structures themselves are in a state of disrepair, and are only accessible by boat or helicopter. The UK government has declared the forts off-limits to visitors, citing the dangers of trespassing and the instability of the structures. They serve as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to defend their country during World War II, and the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who built them. And while they may be off-limits, the Maunsell Sea Forts continue to fascinate and inspire.

9. Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Virginia lies the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center, a top-secret facility designed to serve as the government’s backup command center in the event of a national emergency. Built during the Cold War, the center was designed to withstand a nuclear attack and house government officials and military leaders in the event of a catastrophic event. But despite its importance, the Mount Weather facility remains a forbidden place to all but a select few.

Access to the facility is tightly controlled, and the government provides little information about its activities or operations. The center is shrouded in secrecy, with rumors of underground tunnels, hidden bunkers, and high-tech surveillance equipment fueling the imaginations of curious adventurers. And while the government has acknowledged the existence of the facility, it remains off-limits to the general public, making it one of the most forbidden places in the United States.

10. Mezhgorye

Deep in the heart of the Ural Mountains lies a forbidden place that few dare to venture – Mezhgorye, Russia. This remote and mysterious city is known as Mezjgorje, which means “intermontane, between the mountains” in Russian. The city is a closed-off area in the autonomous republic of Bashkortostan and has been shrouded in secrecy for decades. Mezjgorje consists of two settlements that were merged together, previously known as Beloretsk-15 and Beloretsk-16, and is located near the river Maly Inzer.

The history of Mezjgorje dates back to World War II when it was a closed-off place due to the large timber industry that produced wood for the front line. However, in the 1970s, the State Construction Company No. 30 began digging tunnels in the Jamantaoe Mountains, and workers started flocking to the area. In 1979, the Solnetsjny settlement was established, and in 1995, Beloretsk-15 and Beloretsk-16 were merged to form the closed city of Mezjgorje.

The purpose of the underground work in Mezjgorje remains a mystery, fueling much speculation. Some Russian officials have cited various reasons such as uranium mining, storage of food and clothing, storage of state treasures, and use as a shelter for top Russian officials in the event of a nuclear attack. American intelligence agencies estimated that the Russian state invested over $6 billion in the complex between 1991 and 2000, a time when there was a severe shortage of funds. It is also believed that the complex covers over 1000 km² and could house tens of thousands of people.

11. Room 39

Way down deep in the Democratic Republic of Korea, there’s this super-secret office that’s so secretive, it doesn’t even have a name – just a number. They call it Room 39 or Office 39, and it is one of the greatest modern crimes. This enigmatic location is believed to be a secret organization within the North Korean government that’s responsible for some of the country’s most nefarious activities, including money laundering, illegal weapons trading, and counterfeiting. In fact, some experts estimate that Room 39 generates billions of dollars each year for the North Korean regime, making it one of the most lucrative and powerful organizations in the world.

Despite its immense wealth and power, Room 39 remains a shadowy and elusive entity, with few outsiders having any idea of what goes on within its walls. The North Korean government denies the existence of Room 39, but rumors and speculation persist, with some claiming that it’s responsible for everything from the country’s nuclear program to the lavish lifestyles of its leaders. So if you are tempted to try and uncover the secrets of Room 39 – just be warned, this is one forbidden place that’s best left alone.

12. Poveglia Island

Nestled in the shimmering waters of the Venetian Lagoon lies Poveglia Island, a forbidden place with a dark and sinister past. Known as the “Island of the Dead,” Poveglia has been used as a quarantine station, mental asylum, and plague burial ground throughout its dark history. It’s said that the spirits of the thousands who died on the island still haunt its crumbling ruins, making it one of the most haunted places in the world.

Despite its eerie reputation, thrill-seekers and ghost hunters from around the world have tried to sneak onto Poveglia Island to explore its abandoned buildings and uncover its secrets. But the Italian government has made it clear that the island is off-limits to visitors, and anyone caught trespassing can face hefty fines or even imprisonment. We don’t know what’s scarier – facing the wrath of the Italian authorities or encountering the restless spirits that call this forbidden place their home…

13. Metro-2

Buried deep beneath the bustling streets of Moscow lies Metro-2, also known as D-6. It is a highly classified and top-secret underground network of tunnels and bunkers that stretches for hundreds of miles beneath the city of Moscow. It’s believed to have been constructed during the Soviet era as a secret means of transportation and communication for the government and military in times of crisis, such as during a nuclear attack. The existence of Metro-2 was first revealed in the early 1990s by a Russian journalist, but the Russian government has neither confirmed nor denied its existence.

According to rumors and speculation, the network of tunnels and bunkers that make up Metro-2 is highly sophisticated and includes underground train stations, command centers, and living quarters for the Russian leadership in case of an emergency. The system is also said to be connected to the Moscow Metro, allowing for quick and secret transportation of key government officials. Despite its mysterious and secretive nature, there have been reported sightings and encounters with the Russian military guarding the entrances to Metro-2, giving credence to the belief that it still exists and is in use today.

14. Club 33

Inside one of the happiest places on earth liest one of the most forbidden ones as well: Club 33 in Disneyland, USA. This exclusive club is shrouded in mystery and exclusivity. It was created by Walt Disney himself in the 1960s as a private hideaway for VIPs and high rollers. But don’t let its fancy facade fool you – gaining entry to this exclusive club is like trying to crack the Da Vinci code! Rumors abound about the qualifications needed to become a member, but one thing is for sure – the waiting list is long, and the fees are high! With an extensive waiting list of more than 800 people willing to pay a whopping $25,000 initiation fee and an additional $10,000 annual membership fee, it’s clear that access to this luxurious experience is reserved for a privileged few.

So, why is Club 33 so forbidden? Well, for starters, it’s one of the most exclusive clubs in the world, and access is strictly limited to members and their guests. In fact, even getting a glimpse of the club’s interior is next to impossible, as it’s hidden away behind a nondescript door with a nondescript address. But for those lucky enough to gain entry, the club offers a unique experience unlike any other, with fine dining, exclusive merchandise, and even a private balcony overlooking the park. So, if you’re feeling daring and adventurous, try your luck at cracking the Club 33 code – who knows, you might just end up rubbing elbows with Mickey Mouse himself!

15. The Bohemian Grove

The Bohemian Grove is a private campground located in Monte Rio, California, USA, and it is known to be a meeting place for the most influential and wealthy men in the world. It was founded in 1872 by a group of artists, writers, and journalists who wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and commune with nature. However, over the years, the Bohemian Grove has transformed into a meeting place for the most powerful individuals, including politicians, businessmen, and other influential figures.

The Grove is a place where these men can meet and network in secret, away from the prying eyes of the public and the media. The Grove’s members are known to engage in various activities, including talks, discussions, and even theatrical performances. It is said that some of the most significant decisions in history have been made at the Grove, including the Manhattan Project, which led to the development of the atomic bomb. While the Bohemian Grove has been shrouded in secrecy, it has also faced criticism and scrutiny for its exclusivity and the potential for it to be a breeding ground for conspiracy theories.

16. The Coca-Cola Recipe Vault

Deep in the heart of Georgia, there exists a secret facility that is more heavily guarded than Fort Knox. The Coca-Cola Recipe Vault is the Holy Grail for all cola aficionados and is said to house the recipe for the world-renowned Coca-Cola. The recipe is considered one of the most valuable trade secrets in the world, with an estimated value of over a billion dollars.

The vault itself is located in a nondescript building that blends into the surroundings. However, appearances can be deceiving, and the inside of the vault is a different story altogether. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, including armed guards, biometric scanners, and even motion sensors that detect any unauthorized movement. The recipe itself is said to be stored in a locked steel vault that is further protected by a secret combination known only to a select few individuals. It is no wonder that the Coca-Cola Recipe Vault is considered one of the world’s most secure facilities!

But what about the recipe itself? Well, nobody knows for sure what exactly is contained in that secret recipe. However, some have speculated that it includes everything from coca leaves to vanilla extract. The company has fiercely guarded the recipe for over a century and has even gone to great lengths to keep it a secret, including creating fake recipes to throw off any would-be spies. So, the next time you crack open a cold can of Coke, remember that you are enjoying a drink whose recipe is shrouded in mystery and protected by some of the most intense security measures on the planet.

17. Mount Everest’s Death Zone

Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, has always been a tantalizing destination for adventurers and climbers. However, there’s a place on this mountain that’s known as the “Death Zone,” and it’s not for the faint of heart. The Death Zone is an altitude above 26,000 feet, where oxygen levels are too low to sustain human life for an extended period. The air pressure is so low that its impossible to stay hydrated. It’s a place where every step you take could be your last.

The Death Zone is a place of extreme danger and has claimed the lives of many experienced climbers. But for some, the lure of the summit is too great, and they are willing to take the risk. The only way to survive in this zone is to carry supplemental oxygen, but even that can be a risky proposition. One mistake, one miscalculation, and you could find yourself stranded and helpless, at the mercy of the elements. The Death Zone is a place that demands respect, and those who venture into it do so at their own peril.

18. The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier hotel in West Virginia may look like your typical luxury hotel, but it holds a secret that was hidden from the public for decades. Back in the 1950s, when the Cold War was at its height, the US government secretly built an underground bunker beneath the hotel to serve as a safe haven for the US Congress in case of a nuclear attack. The bunker was hidden in plain sight, with the hotel’s staff and guests being completely unaware of its existence for over 30 years.

The bunker was designed to be self-sufficient for up to 60 days and was stocked with enough food, water, and other essentials to keep the members of Congress alive during a nuclear crisis. It featured a fully-functional hospital, a communications center, a power plant, and even a decontamination chamber. The bunker was kept in a state of constant readiness throughout the Cold War, with staff working around the clock to ensure that everything was in working order in case of an emergency. While the bunker was never used for its intended purpose, it remains one of the most fascinating and well-preserved relics of the Cold War era.

19. The White’s Gentleman’s Club

Nestled in the heart of London lies a secretive establishment that’s been the stomping ground of the city’s elite for over hundreds of years – The White’s Gentlemen’s Club. This exclusive club, which was founded in 1693, has been a haunt for aristocrats, politicians, and even royals over the centuries such as Charles III and the Prince of Wales. But what makes it so forbidden? For starters, access is only granted to men who have been approved by current members, and even then, they must adhere to a strict set of rules and regulations.

But the exclusivity of the club isn’t the only reason it’s shrouded in secrecy. Rumors have circulated for years about the wild parties and debauchery that take place within its walls. From gambling and drinking to less-than-savory activities, it’s said that anything goes behind the closed doors of The White’s Gentleman’s Club. But for those on the outside looking in, this forbidden place remains a mystery – a place where only the privileged few are granted access to its hallowed halls.

20. The Room of the Last Supper

The Room of the Last Supper in Jerusalem is a mysterious place that has been off-limits to the public for centuries. According to tradition, this small room was the site of Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples before his crucifixion. Despite its religious significance, the room has been kept under lock and key by the Israeli government and is only accessible to a select few. The secrecy surrounding the room has only added to its allure, as visitors are left to wonder what secrets and mysteries lie within its walls.

The Room of the Last Supper has long been a pilgrimage site for Christians, and its historical and cultural significance cannot be overstated. The room is said to contain artifacts from the time of Jesus, including ancient relics and religious artifacts. While the public may never be allowed to see these treasures for themselves, the mystery and mystique of the room continue to captivate people from all over the world, making it a truly forbidden and enigmatic place.

21. The Bank of England Vaults

Ah, the Bank of England Vaults, where the gold glitters like the sun and the security measures are tighter than a drum! This forbidden place is the ultimate treasure trove, holding a vast amount of the UK’s gold reserves. If you think getting a seat at a sold-out concert is hard, then try breaking into the Bank of England Vaults! It’s like trying to crack a safe that’s wrapped in a maze of lasers and guarded by a team of James Bond lookalikes.

Rumors abound about the secrets and treasures that lie within the Bank of England Vaults. Some say that it’s home to more gold than Fort Knox, while others claim that it holds priceless artifacts from around the world. Whatever the truth may be, one thing’s for sure – this forbidden place is not for the faint of heart. You’d have better luck trying to convince a lion to become a vegetarian than breaking into the Bank of England Vaults. So, let’s just admire its shine from afar and leave the security guards to do their job!

22. The Vatican Necropolis

Deep beneath the Vatican City, a secret world exists. It’s a place of darkness and silence, where the only sounds are the faint whispers of the past. This is the Vatican Necropolis, a labyrinth of underground tunnels, tombs, and crypts that stretches for miles beneath the holy city. It’s a forbidden place, accessible only to a select few who have been granted permission to enter.

Legend has it that this place was once the site of Saint Peter’s tomb, and it’s said that his remains still lie buried here. For centuries, only the holiest of holy men have been allowed to enter this sacred space, and even then, only under the most stringent of conditions. Nowadays, if you manage to secure tickets, you can enter it as well. But what lies beyond these dark corridors? What secrets are hidden in these ancient tombs? Only those with the courage to venture into the Vatican Necropolis will ever know for sure.

23. The Secret Annex

The Secret Annex in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a notorious location steeped in history and tragedy. It is the site where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. The Secret Annex, also known as the Achterhuis, was a hidden section behind a bookcase in a building on Prinsengracht street. The Franks, along with the Van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer, lived in secret there for over two years until they were betrayed and arrested by the Nazis in 1944.

Today, the Secret Annex is a museum dedicated to Anne Frank’s life and legacy, but visitors can still see the actual rooms where the Frank family and their companions lived in hiding. The space is small and cramped, a stark reminder of the difficult conditions under which they lived. As visitors walk through the Annex, they can see the original diary that Anne wrote in, as well as the walls where she documented her thoughts and feelings. The Secret Annex is a solemn place, reminding us of the dangers of prejudice and discrimination, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

24. The Tomb of Qin Shi Huang

In the heart of China lies an ancient tomb shrouded in mystery and legend. This is the final resting place of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, who ruled with an iron fist over 2,000 years ago. Though his rule was marked by brutal conquests and mass executions, his legacy lives on through his legendary tomb. According to legend, this tomb is filled with priceless treasures, including vast amounts of gold, jade, and other precious artifacts. Yet despite years of excavation, only a fraction of this tomb has been uncovered, leaving much of its secrets to the imagination.

The sheer scale of this tomb is breathtaking, with reports estimating that it covers over 56 square kilometers. What’s more, the tomb is said to be protected by an army of terracotta warriors, which stand guard over the emperor’s remains. These life-sized figures are intricately crafted and each one is unique, suggesting that they were modeled after real soldiers who served in the emperor’s army. As archaeologists continue to work tirelessly to uncover the secrets of this tomb, it remains one of the most fascinating and enigmatic archaeological sites in the world. Who knows what treasures lie buried deep within its depths, waiting to be discovered?