Tourists Beware — Here are 13 of the Most Haunted Places on Earth
Mary King’s Close — Edinburgh, Scotland
Once a thriving underground market of streets and homes, Mary King’s Close holds a rich history with many tales. The guided tours offer a unique and haunting look at over 400 years of history.
Among the horrific conditions in the close, many of the inhabitants were exposed to the outbreak of the Bubonic Plague, or “The Black Death,” which is likely the reason for many of the deaths that transpired there. Such is the case for 10-year-old Annie who still haunts the streets, occasionally interacting with tourists who leave toys and treats for her.
The underground excursion may not be for everyone, but it’s a unique look into Scotland’s past. And who can deny the thrill of possibly encountering something paranormal?
Of course there’s no shortage of haunted tales in Scotland. A handful of Scottish castle stays have their own ghosts that you can meet for yourself by spending the night.
Hellfire Club — County Dublin, Ireland
Described as one of the most terrifying places on Earth, The Hellfire Club was built on top of a sacred tomb under the guise of being a hunting lodge. Once acquired by members of the Hellfire Club, it was used for their meetings at which the first toast was drunk in honor of the devil himself. The Club quickly became known for their excessive drinking and “wild debauchery.”
The site is home to many ghosts and urban lore claims that the Hellfire Club is still used by satanists and devil-worshipers to this day. Tourists may witness the hiss of a black cat that is said to be a demon or malevolent spirit, among other paranormal activity.
Exploring the Hellfire Club is only for brave adults but there are many companies who offer guided visits from walking to bus tours.
Don't waste your time on the worst tourist traps in Europe — there are far better things to see that you don't have to fight crowds to get to.
Château de Brissac — Maine-et-Loire, France
Originally built during the 11th century, the Château de Brissac is the tallest castle in France. The structure was rebuilt in 1502 by Charles II, the Duke of Brissac, to serve as a fort.
The castle’s resident ghost is the “la Dame Verte” or the Green Lady. Stories say that she was an unfaithful wife who was murdered by her husband. Her spirit is often sighted roaming the halls and heard wailing in the early hours of the morning.
The Green Lady has given many visitors quite a scare, not only because they’ve seen a ghost, but also because her appearance is said to be quite horrific. Those who catch a glimpse of her face say there are gaping holes where her eyes and nose should be, similar to that of a decaying corpse.