Recently updated on January 23rd, 2020 at 03:53 pm
With Halloween fast approaching, we’re reminded of the ghoulish, ghostly tales surrounding some of our favourite ancient sites. Take a look at seven of the most haunted castles to visit this Halloween, if you dare…
Tower of London, England
Dating all the way back to the 11th century, the Tower of London has a long and gruesome history of torture and beheadings, so it’s no surprise many people believe the Historic Royal Palace to be haunted. But what’s certainly less expected is the ghost story of a phantom bear, which could be one of two that once lived in the former prison which is named one of the most haunted places in Britain.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Going even further back in time, Edinburgh Castle dates from as early as 850 BC, and across the centuries has been at the centre of many battles. This might explain why so many ghost sightings and apparitions are reported here. And what’s more, the castle overlooks what is said to be one of the world’s most haunted cities where you might encounter the ghosts of sinister characters from the city’s past.
Himeji Castle, Japan
Set overlooking the city below, Himeji Castle is quite a sight to behold. But this striking structure is another of the world’s most haunted monuments. Originally built in the mid-14th century, it was the Lord of Himeji who resided here. But the ghost that’s said to haunt the site now is his servant, Okiku, who worked in the dungeons and came to her demise in the castle’s well; I guess we won’t be making any wishes there.
Predjama Castle, Slovenia
The curious Predjama Renaissance Castle was built in the mouth of a cave in south-central Slovenia. While its appearance alone is intriguing, the reports of paranormal activity are even more so. Ghost Hunters International insist the stories of soldiers haunting the castle are true based on their detection of the paranormal.
Castle of Bardi, Italy
While Bardi has an undeniably scenic setting within Emilia-Romagna, the castle here is believed to be one of the most haunted in the whole of Europe. The tale surrounding this ghost story is one of tragedy, when a love story ended with the heroine jumping to her death after mistakenly believing the knight she loved had been killed by the enemy.
Frankenstein Castle, Germany
With a name so intrinsically linked to horror, many would expect Frankenstein Castle to be haunted, and it’s believed that the castle was the inspiration behind Mary Shelley’s novel. Overlooking the city of Darmstadt, and within the Odenwald mountain range, the castle is the setting for countless legends, with the added evidence of paranormal activity.
Chateau de Brissac, France
Brissac Castle sits within the Loire Valley, but yet again, owing to its long and tumultuous history, the castle is entwined with tales of the paranormal. Despite the castle being amidst battles and wars throughout time, it’s the former noble’s unfaithful wife and her murdered lover who are believed to haunt the castle today.
Set out on your own ghoulish journey to any one of these destinations. Visit the Tower of London on our London Explorer trip, step into Edinburgh castle on the Best of Scotland itinerary, and travel through Europe on the Traditional Europe with Eurostar trip.
Image credits: Cover photo of the Tower of London © iStock / Nicolas McComber. The Tower of London © iStock. Edinburgh Castle © iStock. Himeji Castle © iStock / Kommercialize. Chateau de Brissac © Flickr / Daniel Jolivet.