13 spooky abandoned palaces spotted on Instagram around the world – from Italy’s Villa de Vecchi to New York’s Bannerman Castle
From the Jaipur's regal Jal Mahal to New York socialite’s retreat Wyndclyffe Castle – said to be source of the expression ‘keeping up with the Jonses’ – these palaces were the height of luxury when built, but now the abandoned ruins make for a ghostly IG-worthy backdrop for scarily good photos
These palaces and castles were originally the lavish homes of rulers or the dreamlike creations of aristocrats or business titans who fashioned themselves after royalty. They were considered to be the height of luxury when they were built.
Now, they are dilapidated and crumbling.
Some of these palaces have now been restored and even serve as wedding venues. Others, however, have remained untouched for years – reduced to a creepy spot to snap an Instagram photo.
Keep reading for a closer look at 13 abandoned palaces around the world.
Swannanoa – Virginia, US
An American railroad executive called James H Dooley had this marble villa constructed in 1912 as a replica of the Villa de Medici in Rome. It took 300 artisans to complete and included a 4,000-piece Tiffany stained glass window.
After the Dooleys died in the 1920s, the villa was converted into a country club. It was officially abandoned in the 1980s and then turned into a historical site.
Today, Swannanoa Palace hosts weddings and weekly tours.