Meet the spookiest places in Europe – are you brave enough to visit?

Europe has a long and gruesome history. Do you have the guts to explore some of the spookiest places on the continent? We’re getting goosebumps already!

Where the witches fly

There’s nowhere more magical than Germany’s Harz Mountains. In fact, many of the Brothers Grimm world famous fairytales originate in the region.

Giants, goblins and gnomes are rumoured to stalk the surrounding villages, but the area is most famous for witches. Visit any of the picturesque towns in the region and you’ll see effigies of women on broomsticks everywhere.

For thrill seekers, the real destination is The Brocken peak. It’s the highest point in the Harz Mountain range and is also where the witches are said to gather. When you’re on the summit, check out two creepy rock formations known as the Devil’s Pulpit and the Witches’ Alter.

Get there: Frankfurt, Hamburg and Berlin airports are all a few hours’ drive from the Harz Mountains.

To hell and back

During Pagan times, the people of Prague came here to bring sacrifices to dark goddess Morana. And the eerie activity lives on with the Faust House. Since the 15th century, this has been home to several alchemists and unusual other characters. But the Devil is at the heart of the darkest stories. Apparently, Dr Faust was brought to hell by Lucifer himself through a hole in the ceiling.

Venture less than two hours outside Prague and things get even weirder… Houska Castle was built in the 13th century and is a fantastic example of gothic architecture. However, legend has it that the castle was constructed to block a gateway to hell. According to folklore, strange beasts regularly emerged from the hole where the castle now stands. Skeletons of human-animal hybrids are said to litter secret underground passages beneath the castle.

Get there: Fly direct to Prague.

Dark secrets in elegant châteaux

Bordeaux has several splendid examples of beautiful châteaux. But look beyond their splendour and you just might catch a glimpse of a sordid past.

First built in 1269, Château de Puymartin is home to the 16th century La Dame Blanche, one of France’s most famous spectres. After her husband discovered Thérèse de Saint-Clar was having an affair, he flew into a rage. He imprisoned her in a tiny room, where she died 15 years later. Many have witnessed her restless spirit wandering the castle.

 

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A similar story is shared at Château de Brissac. People flock here to see the luxe décor of the opulent castle, but they often get chills down their spine too. A woman and her lover were killed by jealous husband Jacques de Brézé in 1477. Now their restless souls stalk the place of their untimely death.

Get there: Fly to Bordeaux and take a day trip to see these castles.

Messages from the dead

If you know where to look, you might be surprised at how macabre Rome can be…

The skeletons of over 3,700 Capuchin friars are interned in the Capuchin Crypt. It might look like typical church arches and altars, but look closely and you’ll see that everything is made from their bones and skulls.

 

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The Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory is a tiny building with a collection of prayer books, bibles, clothes and table tops with one thing in common. They all have hand-shaped burn marks, said to be made by departed souls. This is their way of urging their loved ones to pray harder so they can ascend to heaven.

Get there: Fly direct to Rome airport.

Crime and punishment

With historic crimes that are famous worldwide, London some gruesome stories to tell.

Jack the Ripper is one of the most notorious criminals the world has ever known, yet no one knows his true identity. Learn more about the serial killer in a museum dedicated to his terrible crimes.

For an immersive experience, head to the London Dungeon. Take the Tyrant Boat Ride, discover the Guy Fawkes Gunpowder Plot and enter the Torture Chamber if you dare…

Home to the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London has also housed some exceptionally famous prisoners including Sir Walter Raleigh, Lady Jane Grey, Guy Fawkes, Rudolf Hess, Roger Casement and the Kray twins. Anne Boleyn was also executed here by her husband Henry VIII and her ghost is said to haunt the Tower.

Get there: Choose from daily flights from Gatwick or Heathrow.

Book great value flights today and start planning your spooky trip.