7 Must-Visit Tunnels Around the World for Urban Explorers
Tunnels have always been a fascination for urban explorers. The underground passageways, which are often hidden beneath the bustling cities and towns, hold stories of their own. Some tunnels were built to serve specific purposes such as transportation or water supply while others were created for more sinister reasons such as smuggling contraband or evading authorities.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most interesting tunnels around the world that urban explorers can visit.
1. Cu Chi Tunnels – Vietnam
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an intricate network of underground tunnels used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. These tunnels played a crucial role in the war effort as they were used for hiding, storing supplies and launching surprise attacks on enemy forces.
Today, visitors can explore parts of these tunnels that have been preserved and learn about the history and tactics employed by Vietnamese soldiers during this time.
2. Catacombs – Paris
Paris is known for its breathtaking architecture and art but it also has an eerie side to it with its catacombs located deep below ground level. The catacombs contain bones from over six million people who died in Paris between 12th to 18th century including victims of plagues, wars, and revolutions.
Although illegal to enter without permission from authorities due to safety concerns like getting lost or buried alive under rubble-filled passages; many urban explorers still venture into these dark passageways for an unforgettable experience.
3. Shanghai Tunnels – United States
Located beneath Portland’s Old Town Chinatown neighborhood in Oregon lies a series of interconnected underground passageways known as ‘Shanghai Tunnels’. These tunnels were used by gangs in the late 19th century to kidnap unsuspecting men who would then be sold into forced labor aboard ships bound for Asia.
Visitors can now tour parts of these historic tunnels through guided tours provided by local organizations who have also preserved the tunnels to tell their stories.
4. Wieliczka Salt Mine – Poland
The Wieliczka Salt Mine located in southern Poland is one of the world’s oldest mines, having operated continuously since the 13th century. The mine was added to UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978 and attracts more than a million visitors every year.
Visitors can take a walk through its underground chambers and tunnels while learning about the history of salt mining at this site.
5. Burlington Bunker – United Kingdom
Located beneath Corsham in North West England lies an extensive network of underground tunnels known as ‘Burlington Bunker’. These tunnels were built during the Cold War era by British authorities for use as a potential government headquarters in case of nuclear attack.
Today, visitors can take guided tours through these historic bunkers that include detailed exhibits showcasing how life would have been like for those who lived there during times of war.
6. Củ Chi Tunnels – Vietnam
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an intricate network of underground tunnels used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. These tunnels played a crucial role in the war effort as they were used for hiding, storing supplies and launching surprise attacks on enemy forces.
Today, visitors can explore parts of these tunnels that have been preserved and learn about the history and tactics employed by Vietnamese soldiers during this time.
7. Portland Underground – United States
Located beneath downtown Portland, Oregon lies another series of interconnected passageways known as ‘Portland Underground’ or simply ‘Shanghai Tunnels’. These passageways were originally created to transport goods between buildings but later became associated with human trafficking from which it gained its notoriety today.
Urban explorers can tour parts of these historic structures which include secret rooms and hidden passages that served both legitimate business operations as well as illegal activities such as gambling dens or brothels back then.
In conclusion, tunnels are fascinating places that hold stories of their own. From secret passageways used by smugglers to underground bunkers built during the Cold War era, these structures continue to intrigue and captivate urban explorers around the world.