The Oise , a department in the Hauts-de-France region, is full of fascinating abandoned places that bear witness to its rich historical and industrial past. For urban exploration enthusiasts, or urbex , these sites offer captivating and unique adventures. Here is a selection of five must-see urbex sites in the Oise, each with its own distinct atmosphere and intriguing story.
1: The Forest Castle
A Forgotten Castle in the Heart of the Forest: The once majestic Forest Castle is now a mysterious and abandoned place, lost in the middle of the woods. This site is ideal for urban explorers in search of historical remains.
Site Features
- Architecture: 19th century castle with towers and outbuildings.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the mysterious atmosphere and architectural details.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms of the castle and imagine the lives of the former residents.
2: The Abandoned Factory of Nogent-sur-Oise
A Witness to Heavy Industry: The former factory in Nogent-sur-Oise is a deserted industrial site, a testament to the region's industrial past. This place offers a fascinating glimpse into industrial history.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production buildings, warehouses, machinery.
- State of disrepair: Largely in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and the remnants of machines.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the factory and imagine the past industrial activity.
3: The Abandoned Sanatorium of Liancourt
A Deserted Hospital: The Liancourt Sanatorium is an abandoned medical site, offering an atmosphere that is both unsettling and captivating. This place is ideal for urban explorers interested in the history of medicine.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, dormitories, treatment rooms.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some sections remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the medical atmosphere and the remnants of equipment.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and the stories of former patients.
4: The Fort of Montataire
A Military Relic: The Fort of Montataire , built in the 19th century, is an abandoned military site offering an immersion into the region's military history. This place is perfect for urban explorers passionate about fortifications.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, others are still standing.
- Access: Visits are permitted for some sections, but others require discretion.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing military architecture and historical atmosphere.
- Exploration: Discover less accessible areas and delve into the history of the fort.
5: The Abandoned Creil Station
A Railway Relic: The abandoned Creil station is a fascinating site, a testament to the region's railway history. Closed for years, this station offers a nostalgic and melancholic atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Station buildings, platforms, railway tracks.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some sections remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the railway atmosphere and the remnants of the infrastructure.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the station and imagine past railway activity.
Conclusion
The Oise region offers a multitude of fascinating urban exploration sites for fans of urban exploration. From the Château de la Forêt to the abandoned Creil train station, passing through the factory in Nogent-sur-Oise and the sanatorium in Liancourt, each location offers a unique adventure. By respecting safety rules and property rights, you can enjoy memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
