Explore the Top 10 Places Creepier Than Stephen King’s Hometown of Maine: An Informative Guide

The state of Maine, home to horror novelist Stephen King, is known for its hauntingly beautiful forests and quaint fishing villages. But there are places in the world that are even creepier than the hometown of one of literature’s most famous authors. From ancient villages to abandoned cities, here is a guide to ten of the spookiest places on Earth.

Houska Castle, Czech Republic

Built in 1253, Houska Castle has been the setting of countless myths and legends over the centuries. People living in the nearby village have long believed that the castle was built atop a “gateway to hell”, which they speculated was opened by the Nazis during their occupation of the area. Whether or not this is true remains a mystery, but it doesn’t stop people from believing. Visitors can tour the castle in the daytime, although how much fun you will have doing so is debatable.

Island of the Dolls, Mexico

This tiny island in Xochimilco, Mexico City is home to hundreds of discarded dolls and other toys which are hung up on tree branches and left to the forces of nature. According to the story, the dolls were placed there by a former caretaker in memory of a girl who drowned in the nearby canal. The dolls are said to be possessed by her spirit and visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling as if they are being watched. Definitely one destination that no tourist should miss.

Old Jewish Cemetery, Prague

Located in the heart of Prague, this cemetery dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest in Europe. It is home to some of the most gruesome gravesites and headstones, depicting horrific scenes of death and suffering. It is also believed to be haunted by the ghosts of those who were buried there, although reports are inconclusive. Regardless, the cemetery has an undeniable air of unease and is definitely worth visiting, although perhaps not alone.

Matsuo Ghost Mine, Japan

Deep beneath the mountains of Gunma Prefecture in Japan lies the Matsuo Ghost Mine. For decades, miners toiled away in what they called the “Gates of Hell” and carved out a series of winding, dark tunnels. After the mine closed down, rumors started to spread of strange occurrences and sightings, including the ghost of a miner still wandering the depths. Today, the mine is open to brave visitors who wish to explore its depths.

Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, Italy

These catacombs lie beneath the Capuchin Monastery of Palermo, Sicily and date back to the 16th century. Here, 8,000 mummified corpses of monks, priests and nobles lay side by side in a winding labyrinth. It is estimated that only around 2,000 of the bodies still remain today after years of looting and damage. Nonetheless, it remains a creepy and fascinating place, replete with human remains, bones and dusty artifacts.

Aokigahara Forest, Japan

The Aokigahara Forest, located at the base of Mount Fuji, is one of the most infamous places in the world. Known as the “suicide forest,” it is estimated that up to 100 people take their own lives each year in this dense, eerie wood. It is said to be haunted by yurei, or angry spirits, and visitors often report feeling a strange presence while walking through the trees. Needless to say, exploring the forest should be left to experts.

Château de Brissac, France

The Château de Brissac, standing tall since the 11th century, is said to be one of the most haunted castles in all of Europe. Its walls are said to contain the ghost of Charlotte de Breze, the mistress of Jacques de Breze who murdered her in 1572. Legend has it that she appears every few years, a sight which has scared away many visitors. Despite this, the castle still hosts regular tours and events.

Chernobyl Power Plant, Ukraine

One of the most notorious places on Earth, the Chernobyl Power Plant was the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster in 1986. Now, it stands as a grim reminder of the potential dangers of nuclear energy and is among the most haunted places on the planet. Visitors to the area report feelings of unease and some have even claimed to hear strange noises coming from the ruins.

Poveglia Island, Venice

Tiny Poveglia Island has a long, dark history that most would prefer to forget. In the 18th century, the island was used as a quarantine station to hold those infected with the bubonic plague and later, a mental asylum. It was then abandoned and now lies mostly deserted, although people have reported seeing strange figures in the foggy mist. Needless to say, it’s a place best visited in the light of day.

Bhangarh Fort, India

Located in Rajasthan, India, Bhangarh Fort is believed to be the most haunted place in the country. Legends tell of a dark curse cast upon the fort by a powerful wizard, who declared that anyone who remained in the fort overnight would meet a gruesome fate. Visitors must leave the area before sunset, otherwise they risk being cursed. Whether this is true or not, the fort is undeniably eerie and definitely not for the faint of heart.

From haunted castles to enigmatic forests, these are some of the eeriest places in the world. Take a trip down the rabbit hole and discover for yourself the mystery and mystique of these places.