Top 10 Forbidden Places Around the World: Where Entry is Restricted
Modern transportation has advanced dramatically. From sports cars to rockets, we can now travel not only across the globe but also into space. Despite these advancements, many places on Earth remain off-limits to humans. These restrictions are imposed by governments or the local communities themselves. Let's explore some of these forbidden destinations.
Lascaux Caves, France
These caves, dating back 20,000 years, boast impressive prehistoric wall paintings. These paintings offer a glimpse into our history. However, access is now restricted due to the growth of fungi and the presence of dangerous insects within the caves.
Svalbard Global Seed Vault, Norway
Located 400 feet deep within the Spitsbergen Islands of Norway, this subterranean seed repository safeguards nearly 840,000 seeds representing around 4,000 plant species from across the globe. Only authorized personnel are permitted entry.
Snake Island, Brazil
Located 93 miles from São Paulo, Brazil, Ilha da Queimada Grande, is known for its high concentration of venomous snakes—an estimated 5-10 snakes per 10 square feet. The high toxicity of these snakes makes access to the island strictly forbidden.
North Sentinel Island, India
Located in the Andaman Islands of India, this island is entirely off-limits. The indigenous people are fiercely protective of their territory, responding aggressively to outsiders. They consider the island sacred and maintain complete isolation.
Ise Grand Shrine, Japan
Among Japan's over 80,000 temples, the Ise Grand Shrine holds significant importance. It is rebuilt every 20 years, a tradition rooted in Shinto beliefs. Access to this shrine is limited to the Imperial Family.
Tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China
Located near Xi'an, China, this tomb houses the famous terracotta army, thousands of clay statues. The presence of mercury within the tomb makes entry prohibited. Fortunately, a museum displays over 2,000 of the statues.
Fort Knox, United States
Fort Knox is a U.S. military installation. It houses the majority of the U.S. gold reserves. Security is exceptionally stringent, with even birds prohibited from landing, guarded by an Apache helicopter.
The Queen's Bedroom, U.K.
Buckingham Palace's Royal Bedroom remains restricted from public access. It is not open to tourists.
Niihau, United States
Known as the "Forbidden Island," Niihau has been privately owned by a single family for over 150 years. The island is effectively closed off to the outside world.
Heard Island, Australia
One of the most remote islands in the world, Heard Island is located in Australia, though geographically it lies between Madagascar and Antarctica. The presence of two active and dangerous volcanoes restricts access to the island.
