Six Haunted Spots Around the World
Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or a stone-cold skeptic, there’s no denying the old-fashioned fun of a good ghost story. Every town has its tales, from creaky old castles to haunted hotels, or a mysterious woodland where nothing is as it seems. These local legends can offer an educational glimpse into an alluring unknown history, but more often than not, they simply serve to scare. Read on to learn about some of the most haunted places around the world — just make sure you keep the lights on.
Edinburgh Castle (Edinburgh, Scotland)
Originally built as a military fortress in the early 12th century, Edinburgh Castle has defended the Scottish capital against many major battles, and the ghosts of its prisoners reportedly still haunt its ancient underground dungeons. Along with those more predictable paranormal sightings are some inexplicable spirits. The fortress, which sits high above Edinburgh’s skyline, is also home to a reported phantom dog who can be seen roaming the property’s dog cemetery, a piper who disappeared in the underground tunnel and whose music can still be heard in the castle, and a headless drummer who first appeared before Oliver Cromwell’s Battle of Dunbar invasion in 1650.
On our trip to Scotland last year, my sister and I visited the castle, but were not aware of its ghostly reputation!
Ponte Sisto (Rome, Italy)
Rome’s ancient history easily lends itself to legends and folklore. One of the most notorious involves a powerful woman of the 17th century who reportedly haunts the Ponte Sisto bridge. Donna Pamphilj was the sister-in-law and close advisor (and controversially, the rumored mistress) of Pope Innocent X. After the Pope’s death in 1655, she attempted to flee town with the church’s riches to avoid confrontation and anger from a public who did not approve of this so-called “secret pope.” If you visit this bridge that spans the River Tiber, legend has it that you'll see Donna’s ghost leading her carriage out of town at sunrise.
Fort Mifflin (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States)
As with many historical locations that served as military defense sites, Fort Mifflin has a seemingly endless list of supernatural stories that make it one of the most haunted places in the U.S. Built in the 1770s on the banks of the Delaware River, Fort Mifflin still has regular sightings of its former lamplighter in the second floor barracks and an eerie, unexplained presence in the cellar, which was used as a solitary confinement cell for prisoners. Other ghostly reports from the Fort’s on-site tour guides include a pair of children and their dog, as well as the haunting sounds of a screaming mother, who is said to still regret disowning her daughter after the young lady started dating an officer. Fort Mifflin hosts candlelight ghost tours throughout the grounds and promises no “hype” — only real ghosts.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (Banff, Alberta)
This luxurious resort was originally built as part of Canada’s grand railway hotel network, affiliated with the expanding Pacific Railway and intended to promote travel and tourism from coast to coast. But since its opening in 1888, the French château-style hotel has been the site of several incidents that give it a haunted reputation. One of the most enduring tales concerns the hotel’s Ghost Bride, a young woman who reportedly died on the candle lit stairs on her wedding day in 1930 and still appears in that very spot to this day. And guests would be remiss not to watch out for signs of Sam the bellman, a former employee who died in 1975 but still helps guests who are locked out of their rooms and pushes elevator buttons for random floors.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane (London, England)
It’s been called the world’s most haunted theater, and considering the current building is the fourth theater to have existed on site since 1663, it’s easy to believe that some spirits continue to linger. Staff have reported regular glitches with electrical equipment, encounters with the ghost of English comedian Joseph Grimaldi (who gives a kick in the pants to whomever he passes), and, most famously, the Man in Gray. The mysterious figure, dressed in a powdered wig, grey cloak, and a three-cornered hat, is said to stalk the theatre’s upper circle, crossing from one side to the other before disappearing into the wall. While his presence is unexplained and often unsettling, his appearance is also a sign of good luck, said to signify a successful run for a show.
Voergaard Castle (Dronninglund, Denmark)
In 1578, a woman named Ingeborg Skeel acquired the Denmark estate that she would later expand into the stunning Renaissance castle known as Voergaard. Despite her proven success as an esteemed property manager and businesswoman, myths about the fiercely independent Skeel piled up over the years, framing her as a greedy and ruthless woman. One enduring legend claims that Skeel pushed the castle’s builder into its surrounding moat so that no one else could have a home as beautiful as hers. She was said to haunt the castle after her death, appearing as an apparition who walked the halls, until a priest performed an exorcism to lay her soul to rest. Today, the castle hosts historical tours, an impressive art collection, and — as some still believe — the alleged spirit of Skeel.
If you’re ready to chat about your next getaway (hauntings are optional!) book your complimentary Custom Vacation Planning Session now by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for you!
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