Croatia’s Župa Bay became a beach resort in the time between the first and second World Wars. As Josip Tito came to power, the area, with its 5 luxury hotels and beautiful views and beaches, became a hangout for the military and connected elites to vacation while the rest of the country suffered. By the the time of the 1990s wars, the hotels were abandoned and they remain that way, a beautiful and haunting reminder of the dangers of power.

Even when they’re not famous, abandoned hotels and motels can be stunning. The remembrance that they were welcome sights for weary travelers is always there.