Across the globe, there are countless ‘Restricted Areas’ that you won’t find in any travel guide—places shrouded in mystery and sealed off for various reasons: to protect national secrets, preserve fragile ecosystems, or ensure human safety. In this article, we’ve curated a ranking of 15 of the world’s most forbidden zones. Get ready to explore the ‘World’s Most Thrilling List of Restricted Areas.
No.15: Surtsey Island (Iceland)
Source : COMMONS WIKIMEDIA
Located off the southern coast of Iceland, Surtsey Island was suddenly born from an undersea volcanic eruption in 1963. From the moment of its emergence, it was legally designated as a nature reserve, strictly prohibiting human entry. The island serves as a living laboratory, allowing scientists to observe how ecosystems form without human interference. Only a select few researchers are permitted to set foot on the island.
Source : WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Even researchers face strict limitations on the number of people and days allowed on-site. For everyone else, the only way to catch a glimpse of this remote island is from the air via small aircraft. The gradual colonization by birds and plants has been meticulously recorded, and Surtsey was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a one-of-a-kind ‘Ecological Time Capsule,’ humanity can only stand back and observe from afar.
No.14: Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor (China)
Source : Wikipedia
Located near Xi’an, China, the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor stands close to the world-renowned Terracotta Army pits. This ancient burial mound, known as a tumulus, has concealed its underground palace since the emperor’s death in 210 BCE. According to historical texts, including the Records of the Grand Historian, the tomb is said to contain deadly traps such as automatic crossbows that fire on intruders and rivers of flowing mercury. Archaeologists have approached the site with extreme caution, refraining from excavation.
Source : Planet-Life
Opening the tomb carelessly could damage priceless treasures and the emperor’s remains. In fact, high levels of mercury have been detected in the soil, lending credibility to ancient legends. Chinese authorities have declared that not only will the mausoleum remain closed to the public, but even academic excavations are indefinitely postponed. The interior lies sealed in eternal darkness alongside the emperor. Above ground, lush trees conceal the site, making it appear as an ordinary hill—but the secrets buried beneath remain untouched by humankind.
