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.