Hidden beneath the streets of London, the Crystal Palace Subway is a Victorian tunnel and a relic of a bygone era. Opened in 1865 next to the “High Level” railway station, the underground labyrinth features ornate design elements, including a large Italianate facade. It was meant to reflect the grandeur of the Crystal Palace, an iron and glass structure in Hyde Park, London, built to house the Great Exhibition of 1851. It was therefore intended to impress visitors, although its importance waned after the Palace burned down de Cristal in 1936, which led to the station’s closure in 1954. Restoration work is now underway, led by preservationist architect Thomas Ford & Partners, with the aim of reviving it. hidden gem
Craco, Matera, Italy
With an architecture defined by its distinctive shapes and sturdy materials, Craco’s roots reflect a blend of medieval Italian style and Norman influences. From its fortified walls to the intricate details carved into the doors and windows, the city’s architectural legacy tells a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and ultimately, abandonment. Like many abandoned towns, Craco faced its demise due to a series of natural disasters – including landslides in 1963, a flood in 1972 and an earthquake in 1980 – that made the area unsafe for residents, leading to the complete evacuation of the city.
Mandu, Madhya Pradesh, India
Located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, India, Mandu is a treasure trove of cultural richness and architectural splendor. This ancient city has its roots centuries ago as a formidable fortress retreat. Once a thriving center of Afghan architecture and royal grandeur, Mandu’s palaces and mosques are now frozen in time, their intricate designs and artistic embellishments weathered by centuries of neglect. Overgrown gardens and crumbling facades set the stage for a story of shifting powers and political upheavals that led to Mandu’s eventual decline.
