Disney’s Discovery Island
Discovery Island is yet another theme park at Disneyworld Florida which was abandoned and left in ruin. It was introduced in 1974 and stayed open until 1999. The theme of the park was wild animals and guests went there to observe and interact with many species of animals and birds.
Due to low attendance and profitability, the animals were moved to the Animal Kingdom and the park was shut down and abandoned.
The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and Other Churches
The Bohol earthquake hit the Philippines in 2013 and destroyed many of the country’s oldest churches, damaging countless others. The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in the island province of Cebu, was heavily damaged until it finally collapsed. The church, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, was the oldest Catholic Church in the Philippines.
The loss of these churches hit the country hard, due to the enormous impact Catholicism has had on Philippine culture. Most of the landmarks that symbolized that impact are now gone.
Large Portions of the Great Wall
It is still possible to visit the Great Wall of China, a 5,000-mile-long series of fortifications that used to protect the country from invaders. Sadly, almost two thirds of it are no longer around. Some of the damage was caused by natural phenomena but vandalism and tourism are also to blame.
The Chinese government played its part by allowing parts of the wall to be demolished in order to clear the way for development projects. The wall will most likely continue to crumble if the country’s leadership do not put a plan and funds in place to protect it.
The Hippodrome
The Hippodrome Theater in New York was a happening place in its prime. It opened its doors in 1905 and was hailed as the world’s largest theater, seating over 5,000 people at a time. The theater featured films, circuses, and even famous magician, Harry Houdini.
The Hippodrome was most successful in the 20’s but later on experienced a sharp drop in business leading to its eventual closing in 1939. These days, the structure houses an office building.
The Aquatarium
The Aquatarium in St. Petersburg Florida was a theme park that was housed inside a 160-foot tall golden geodesic dome. The attraction opened its doors in 1964 and tourists from all around the world arrived to watch marine animals in special shows. The main stars were porpoises, sea lions, whales and a dolphin named “Floppy”. The dome had a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico which certainly didn’t hurt.
The crowds began to lose interest when Disney World opened in Orlando in 1971. To keep attendance high and hoping to capitalize on the success of Jaws, a special shark exhibit was added in 1976. The attempt failed and the park closed its doors in 1977. The area has since been turned into condominiums.