25 Absolutely Haunting Photos Of Abandoned Places

Do you ever wonder what the world would look like if humans were gone? You don't have to imagine anymore. There are certain places — some have been fairly well-documented — which show exactly what that world would look like.[slideshow:102695]

Famous monuments of historical significance are usually very well-preserved, but many lesser-known locations have been forgotten by people for many years, and are stunning in their own way.

Abandoned places can be ghastly and charming at the same time. They are now dusty, with cracks on the walls, full of shattered windows and with trees growing inside, or possibly underwater. But at one time, hundreds (or even possibly thousands) of residents were living and working there. It's both nostalgic and intriguing.

People are fascinated by castles, islands and even entire cities where locals just picked up and left. Exploring the long untouched places in a way that was not meant to be can be thrilling. You can learn about the history and feel the story behind these 25 fascinating, unusual structures.

Click here for 25 absolutely haunting photos of abandoned places.