The Ghost Town of Kadykchan in Russia with Apocalyptic Artworks

Ngày đăng: 29/07/2026

You may not know about the ghost town of Kadykchan.

This is a town located in Magadan Oblast, in the Russian Far East. Kadykchan was built using the labor of German prisoners of war after World War II to serve the surrounding coal mines. During its peak period in 1986, the town was quite prosperous with a population of about 10,000 residents.

However, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, coal from Kadykchan was no longer needed as the town was located too far away, making mining economically inefficient. In 1996, a mine explosion marked the end for the town. The coal mine was completely closed, and residents were provided $5,000 - $8,000 each to relocate and find new housing. Although gas and electricity were cut off in 2000, it was not until 2001 that the last holdouts finally left this place.

Today, the buildings in Kadykchan still stand tall like a ghost town. It has become a favorite destination for mural artists, people who love apocalyptic-style photography, and airsoft players. The wall drawings left behind by artists make Kadykchan look even more eerie.

The Ghost Town of Kadykchan in Russia with Apocalyptic Artworks