As the needs of the population change, both public and private buildings are abandoned. When they are too expensive to maintain or demolish, they are left to decay. And it is precisely then that lost places become a magnet for urban explorers or “Urbexers“. A growing number of photography and adventure enthusiasts who set off in search of mysterious places. Here are three lost places in Frankfurt (and the surrounding area) that fascinate even experienced Urbexers time and time again.
Lost places in Frankfurt – but beware:
When “urban exploring”, it is important to observe certain rules in order to treat these special places safely and respectfully. First of all, no one should break into forbidden areas. It is important not to take any unnecessary risks and to keep the surroundings clean without soiling or altering them. To avoid vandalism and overcrowding, it is advisable not to give out specific addresses! If you are ready to embark on the adventure, please follow these guidelines and enjoy the journey of discovery!
1. the Oberforsthaus
Built in 1727 as part of the town’s policy to maintain the town forest, most of the complex was destroyed during the war in 1944. Today, only the ruins of the horse stable remain. Despite the metal fence surrounding the ruins, you can still get a sense of its original function when looking through the broken windows. The site is owned by the city, whose most recent project to convert it into a hotel failed. So it seems that the Oberforsthaus will remain a lost place for a little longer.
2. old police headquarters
The Old Police Headquarters is undoubtedly one of the most impressive buildings in Frankfurt. It is characterized by its architectural mixture of neo-baroque and classicism. Add to this the graffiti, the surrounding barbed wire fences and the slowly decaying façade and you have the scene of a nightmare – especially at night.
The architect could hardly have imagined in 1912 that his work would end up like this. Because until not so long ago, there were even parties in the entrance area. Three years ago, the complex was sold to a private group for €212 million, but the future of the presidium remains unclear.
3rd Opel hunting villa
Also in 1912, the Opel family had an ultra-modern hunting villa built in the Taunus in neoclassical style. After the war, the US army confiscated it and used it as a base for its secret services until 1950. Then the decay began.
Today, only the remains of the old swimming pool, the garage, the main tower and some interior rooms remain. The owners and the local council cannot agree on what to do with the ruins: As it is located in a nature reserve, it cannot be used for commercial purposes. Meanwhile, this witness to the Opel family’s former wealth continues to attract brave urban explorers.
In a city like Frankfurt, which is constantly changing, lost places remain like silent witnesses to times gone by, frozen in history. They remind us that behind the shiny facades and modern skyscrapers lies an exciting past. Although many of these places have been left to oblivion, they can still offer a fascinating and mysterious atmosphere that invites you to immerse yourself in the past. These are the Lost Places in Frankfurt!