Capital Cities Left Behind
Ani – Armenia
Once home to 100,000 people and the Bagratid Armenian Kingdom, Ani was abandoned after earthquakes and invasions in the Middle Ages.
Fatehpur Sikri – Akbar’s Capital
Built by Mughal emperor Akbar, this architectural marvel was abandoned within decades due to water scarcity.
Plymouth – Montserrat
This Caribbean capital was buried in volcanic ash in 1997. It remains abandoned, yet officially the capital.
Old Sarum – England’s
A former Roman and Norman power center, Old Sarum lost its relevance when Salisbury was built nearby.
Ayutthaya – Thailand’s Burned Capital
Once a powerful Siamese capital, Ayutthaya was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767. Its ruins are now a UNESCO site.
Bagamoyo – German East Africa
This Tanzanian town was once a major port and colonial capital but faded after power shifted inland to Dar es Salaam.
Dur-Kurigalzu – Babylonian Royal Capital
Built by the Kassite kings of Babylon, this now-deserted site was once filled with palaces and temples.