Ghost Town: Belgium’s Most Haunting Abandoned Village

There are lot of old towns and historical sites in Belgium but Doel which was a prosperous village situated near bustling port of Antwerp, is now a spooky picturesque reminder of a bygone era. There are almost every house is abandoned, walls are full of graffiti and grass has been grown on the roads which makes it one of the most interesting ghost town in Belgium. In spite of this condition, Doel still attracts lot of travelers, urban explorers, photographers, music video makers and some residents who still want the existence of their village.

HISTORY OF DOEL

In the 13th century, Doel was established as a small farming village near the Scheldt River. For a long time this village existed as a quiet and peaceful and was benefiting from its location near Antwerp but the fortunes of this village took a drastic turn in the 20th century when the plan to expand the Port of Antwerp threatened the existence of this town.

Actually Belgian government came up with a plan to expand the port in 1970s which involved the demolition of Doel. The locals were asked to vacate their homes and the town’s population slowly dwindled. By the early 2000s, this town gradually becomes a ghost town with just a few number of residents who refused to move out.

Haunting Atmosphere of Doel

When you walk through the town you will feel like stepping into a post-apocalyptic world. There is no life you will see around you , totally eerily silent. Buildings are abandoned, windows are cracked and walls are covered with street art or graffiti. Some murals show sorrowful faces while others show political messages which is reflecting the town’s long fight to keep the town safe from demolition.

Most striking among these landmarks is the Doel Nuclear Power Plant, standing forebodingly in the background. Its towering height serves to enhance the otherworldly ambiance of this ghost town and it is a favored site for photographers and filmmakers to capture its eerie loveliness.

Street Art and Urban Exploration

In spite of its desolation, Doel got popularity as a tourist spot specially for street artists and urban explorers. The walls and windows of vacant homes became the canvas for some of Europe’s talented graffiti artists. In contrast to other ghost towns where people don’t go but Doel is alive because of this creativity.

Even though it is formally designated as a ghost town but few residents continue to live there and resist being evacuated. These natives, who have lived in the town all their lives are still refusing to be moved out by the government. The struggle has provided them with so many legal conflicts which slowed down the eventual abandonment of the town.

In the recent years, preservationists and activists have come together in their pursuit, claiming that Doel is a cultural and historical landmark and should not be destroyed. Their efforts have put the ghost town on the world map therefore making government plans to destroy it even more difficult.

WHY TO VISIT DOEL

1. If you want to know the history of this town and experience as well the definitely visiting this town is a worth.
2. For those who want to capture beautiful graffiti arts on the abandoned building walls, windows or at the streets.
3. If you want to witness that how a small village wanted to preserve their existence. what problems they faced and you want to see all of this with art and creativity then definitely its a worth visit.
4. If you want to feel thrilling or scary experience. Some other ghost towns are not recommended but its relatively safe and accessible.

In short, Doel is a beautiful ghost town to visit and experience the feel and vibes. while visiting you can witness the history of this village. After looking the graffiti art on the walls and windows, you can experience the whole story with creativity. How a small village fought for its existence. It can really be a unforgettable experience.