Once home to royals, these abandoned castles now stand frozen in time

From storybooks and cartoons to fantasy films and television shows, castles have long captured people's imagination. Children growing up with these stories, at least for once, have dreamt of living in these grand castles.

For centuries, they served as royal residences, military strongholds and centres of political power. Today, many of these once-grand structures stand abandoned, their walls carrying stories of kings, battles, shifting kingdoms and changing times.

While no longer occupied, these castles continue to attract visitors with their rich history, striking architecture and fascinating pasts. Here are five abandoned castles around the world that still stand as reminders of a different era.

Spis Castle, Slovakia

Located in eastern Slovakia, Spis Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Built in the 12th century on a limestone hill, the castle originally served as a border fortress for the Kingdom of Hungary. Over the centuries, it became the administrative centre of the Spis region and remained an important seat of power.

The castle was eventually abandoned in the early 18th century when the noble Csáky family moved to more comfortable residences nearby. Today, its vast ruins overlook the surrounding countryside and remain one of Slovakia's most important historic landmarks.

Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland

Situated at the coastal cliffs in County Antrim, Dunluce Castle is one of Ireland's most recognisable ruins.

The castle dates largely to the 16th and 17th centuries, although the site shows evidence of settlement much earlier. It was first associated with the MacQuillan family before being taken over by the powerful MacDonnell clan during a period marked by conflict and political rivalry.

Dunluce is also linked to local legends, including tales of a banshee and stories about part of the castle's kitchen collapsing into the sea during a storm in 1639. In recent years, it gained international attention as a filming location for the television series Game of Thrones, where it represented the seat of House Greyjoy.

Château Gaillard, France

Overlooking a bend in the River Seine between Paris and Rouen, Château Gaillard was built in 1198 by Richard the Lionheart, King of England.

Constructed to protect Normandy from French advances, the fortress played a key role in medieval military strategy. Following Richard's death, the castle passed to his brother King John before being captured by French King Philip II in 1204.

Though now in ruins, Château Gaillard continues to attract visitors for both its historical significance and its panoramic views of the Seine Valley.

Bodiam Castle, England

Located in East Sussex, Bodiam Castle is one of England's best-known medieval castles.

Built around 1385 by Sir Edward Dallingridge during the Hundred Years' War, the castle was designed both for defence and to display wealth and status. Surrounded by a moat and featuring battlements, towers and spiral staircases, it remains one of Britain's most photographed historic sites.

Although no longer inhabited, Bodiam Castle offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life and architecture.

Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan, India

Situated between Jaipur and Alwar near the Sariska Tiger Reserve, Bhangarh Fort is one of India's most famous abandoned sites.

Built in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh, the fort once housed thousands of residents, along with palaces, temples, markets and grand havelis. Over time, the settlement declined and was eventually deserted.

Today, Bhangarh is often associated with stories of hauntings and local legends, adding to its popularity among visitors. Beyond the folklore, the fort remains an important historical site set against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills.