Buzz
Humanity has dramatically altered the planet through the construction of countless buildings, leaving only a few untouched by civilization. While most structures serve basic functions like providing food, commerce, or shelter, there exists a rare category of buildings designed specifically to keep people out. These locations vary greatly in purpose, from prisons and bank vaults to military facilities, yet each holds a fascinating story. They showcase teamwork and the extraordinary feats humanity can achieve when united by a common goal. Today, we’ll dive into some of the most heavily secured places on Earth, exploring why they are so fortified and uncovering the secrets they may hold.
10. Cheyenne Mountain Complex
First on our list is the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, situated in Colorado. This site has a rich history, serving as a strategic base during the Cold War in the 1950s. At that time, the looming threat of Soviet bombings demanded extreme precautions to ensure the safety of all operations, leading to its construction deep within a mountain.
While its purpose may seem excessive, it certainly fulfilled its role. Although its importance has diminished over time, it remains under the maintenance of the Air Force, albeit at a much reduced capacity. It’s striking to witness such an immense structure now largely inactive, prompting the question of whether it will ever regain its former prominence.
9. Fort Knox
Up next is the legendary Fort Knox. While the name is widely recognized, you may not be familiar with the full extent of its significance. Located in Kentucky, Fort Knox has served as the United States’ renowned military base for decades. Established during World War I, it has played a vital role in training and housing soldiers, with over one million troops having graduated from here. Beyond its military function, Fort Knox also serves as the largest depository for the United States' precious metals—mainly gold! In fact, it holds approximately 147 million ounces of gold, valued at around $10 billion. Given the importance of this stash, it's no surprise that such a heavily guarded military base would be the perfect location to secure it. You definitely wouldn’t want to test your luck trying to get past its defenses.
8. Haven Co
Next up, we have Haven Co, an intriguing and relatively unknown story. The concept behind Haven Co was to provide a location where individuals could host virtually anything through their servers. For instance, if online casinos were banned in a country, users could bypass those restrictions by utilizing Haven Co’s services, acting as a loophole. The only exceptions to this were malicious activities like hacking attempts, which were prohibited.
The reason Haven Co was so tightly guarded is due to its unique location—it’s based on Sealand, a self-declared independent country. This structure, built on the sea, was originally intended to house Haven Co’s servers. Over the years, its focus shifted from hosting services to offering secure cold storage for encrypted data and keys. What started as a quirky and unconventional idea has become even more relevant today, especially in an era of digital censorship, free speech debates, and online privacy concerns. Given the current political climate, Haven Co’s role seems more significant than ever.
7. The Korean Demilitarized Zone
Next up, we have the Korean Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ. This heavily guarded area spans across Korea, acting as a physical and symbolic division between the North and South. The DMZ stretches 250 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, constantly under surveillance. The border is strictly off-limits, and anyone attempting to cross it has faced severe consequences, including casualties. The only way to move between the two Koreas is by traveling through a third country, such as Russia, before reaching your destination. The heightened tensions are unfortunate, but one can hope that a safer, more peaceful future will eventually make crossing this border a possibility.
6. Air Force One
Air Force One is an extraordinary case—it’s not a military base but rather a highly specialized aircraft. This plane is dedicated to transporting the President of the United States, allowing for secure and rapid travel at any moment. Given the importance of its cargo, it’s protected with extreme security measures, only allowing access to those maintaining the aircraft. Air Force One is equipped with numerous advanced features, including the ability to refuel mid-air, protection against electromagnetic pulses (EMPs), and the capability to function as a mobile command center if necessary. It also includes a full-service kitchen, operating room, and a permanent doctor onboard. Truly, it’s the most elite mode of transportation, fit for taking the President anywhere in the world.
5. Woomera Prohibited Area
Continuing, we have the Woomera Prohibited Area, a special zone controlled by the South Australian Army. While it’s not always illegal to enter, there are certain periods when access is restricted. The reason for this is that the area is used for the testing of military equipment, including bombs and other weaponry. Before tests are conducted, notices are issued to evacuate, and no one is allowed in for safety reasons. It’s fascinating to think about what such a place might look like, especially since weapon testing occurs frequently, but these locations are rarely known to the public.
4. ADX Florence
Ranked fourth is ADX Florence, one of the most heavily fortified prisons in the United States. This maximum-security facility houses only the most dangerous criminals. With approximately 400 inmates, the conditions are harsh. While prisoners are provided with the basics—food, a bed, and shelter—they spend up to 23 hours each day in solitary confinement.
It’s definitely not a place for personal growth; rather, it’s designed to isolate individuals from society. Although life inside may seem harsh, getting into this facility is no simple task—you must have earned your place there. ADX Florence stands as an imposing symbol of the ultimate prison experience.
3. The Greenbrier
Finally, we come to “The Greenbrier,” a luxurious spa reserved exclusively for the elite. Situated in West Virginia, it occupies roughly 11,000 acres of land. This grand structure, which dates back to 1778, has endured through centuries and hosted an impressive list of guests, including 26 U.S. presidents. What makes this facility so heavily guarded, however, is its underground bunker. Originally constructed during the Cold War, this bunker was intended to shield members of Congress in the event of an emergency. Fortunately, it was never used for that purpose, but it never hurts to have such secure shelter just in case.
2. Pionen Data Center
Next on the list is the Pionen Data Center. While it might sound dull at first, it's anything but! Pionen is likely the world’s only data center located inside a former nuclear bunker. Bahnhof, a massive service provider, had the resources to transform this unique space into a cutting-edge facility. The result is a stunning blend of futuristic and retro design, creating an atmosphere that is both striking and innovative.
It’s truly a work of art and one that more people should know about. While data centers are typically unremarkable, this one, located at the heart of a nuclear bunker, offers an added layer of intrigue. One can’t help but wonder whether Bahnhof will create something equally remarkable in the future.
1. Area 51
Area 51, a well-known icon, ranks as one of the most tightly secured locations on Earth. Famously regarded as the site where “the aliens are hidden,” it is surrounded by mystery and known only to a select few. But beyond its enigmatic aura, it also serves as a crucial Air Force base, playing a role in training numerous military personnel each year. Spanning 38,000 acres in Southern Nevada, it is nestled deep in a desert. The secrets within its walls remain uncertain, but perhaps it’s simply another Air Force base after all.
