Have you ever walked past an abandoned building or abandoned site and wondered what stories it holds? If so, you might be interested in the activity known as urban exploring, also known as “urbex.” Urban exploring involves visiting and exploring abandoned or off-limits places in an attempt to learn about and document the history and culture of these sites.
While urban exploring may sound like a risky or even illegal activity, it’s important to note that most urban explorers follow a strict code of ethics that involves respecting the law and the property of others. Many urban explorers also work to document and preserve the history of these sites, rather than causing damage or destruction.
The History of Urban Exploring
The practice of urban exploring has a long and fascinating history. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, people known as “place hackers” would break into abandoned buildings and document their findings in order to learn more about the history of these places. In the 1970s and 1980s, the activity became more organized, with the formation of groups such as the Urban Explorers Network in the United Kingdom and the Infiltration zine in Canada.
Today, urban exploring has become a more mainstream activity, with thousands of people around the world participating in the activity. There are even urban exploring groups and forums where people can share their experiences and tips for exploring abandoned places safely and responsibly.
The Appeal of Urban Exploring
So why do people enjoy urban exploring? For many, it’s the thrill of discovering and documenting the history of abandoned places. These sites often have rich histories and stories to tell, and urban explorers are like modern-day archaeologists, uncovering the stories of the past.
Urban exploring can also be a great way to engage with the history and culture of a place. By visiting abandoned factories, schools, hospitals, and other sites, urban explorers can learn about the people and events that shaped these places and get a sense of what life was like in the past.
Safety Considerations for Urban Exploring
While urban exploring can be a fun and rewarding activity, it’s important to take safety into consideration. Many abandoned sites can be hazardous, with unstable structures, exposed wiring, and other potential dangers. It’s important to follow all laws and respect the property of others, and to never enter an abandoned site without the proper precautions and safety equipment.
It’s also a good idea to inform someone of your plans and to never explore alone. Urban exploring can be a great activity to do with friends or with a group, as you can watch out for each other and share in the experience together.
Exploring the Fascinating World of Urban Exploring
If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of abandoned places, consider giving urban exploring a try. It’s a unique and exciting activity that can take you on a journey of discovery and help you learn more about the world around you. Just remember to always prioritize safety and respect the law and the property of others, and you’ll be well on your way to discovering the fascinating world of urban exploring.
Types of Urban Exploring
There are many different types of urban exploring, each with its own appeal and challenges. Some common types of urban exploring include:
- Industrial exploring: This type of urban exploring involves visiting abandoned factories, power plants, and other industrial sites. These sites often have a rich history and can provide a glimpse into the industrial past of a region.
- Abandoned buildings: Exploring abandoned buildings can be a great way to learn about the history of a place. These sites can include everything from old hospitals and schools to abandoned homes and churches.
- Tunnels and underground spaces: Many cities have abandoned tunnels, subway stations, and other underground spaces that are ripe for exploration. These sites can be especially challenging and require specialized equipment and training.
- Military sites: Many countries have abandoned military bases and bunkers that are open for exploration. These sites often have a rich history and can provide insight into the military history of a region.
