Have you ever wondered why people visit places associated with death, violence, and tragedy? It might seem strange, but this unique type of tourism, known as “dark tourism,” is more common than you think.
What is Dark Tourism?
While most people might opt for a relaxing beach vacation or a luxurious cruise, dark tourists seek out places steeped in history, often marked by darkness and suffering. They might travel to the Killing Fields in Cambodia, Auschwitz concentration camp, or the site where a famous dictator was executed. These destinations, though unsettling, offer a glimpse into the human experience and the complexities of history.
Dark Tourism in Your Backyard: London’s Hidden Histories
You don’t need to travel far to find examples of dark tourism. Even a vibrant metropolis like London, with its bustling financial district, has its share of dark corners. The flat where Jimi Hendrix died, the site of the Dennis Nilsen murders, and the location of the Balcombe Street siege are just a few examples. These places may seem ordinary to the untrained eye, but to a dark tourist, they hold a powerful significance.
Beyond the Obvious: Dark Tourism in the Everyday
Dark tourism extends beyond the obvious examples of historical sites. The Tower of London, a popular tourist attraction, also served as a prison and execution ground, a fact that undoubtedly fuels some visitors’ interest. Jack the Ripper Walks, focusing on England’s most infamous serial killer, and the London Dungeon, which recreates gruesome historical events, are further testament to our fascination with the dark side.
A Deeper Dive: The Psychology of Dark Tourism
Dark tourism is more than just a morbid curiosity. It delves into the fabric of our world, exploring the human psyche and the complexities of history. The term “dark tourism” was coined in 1996 by academics J. John Lennon and Malcolm Foley, who described it as an “Attraction to Death and Disaster.”
Professor James Treadwell, an expert in criminology, defines dark tourism as “travel to, and engagement with settings that have a history of violence, death, disaster, and atrocity.” This definition includes both historical sites and contemporary events, such as a young British student traveling to Kabul just before the Taliban takeover in 2021.
The Appeal of the Dark Side: Why People Engage in Dark Tourism
People are drawn to dark tourism for a variety of reasons. David, an IT director with a passion for 20th-century history, finds himself drawn to places where significant events occurred. He describes standing in the room where Nicolae Ceausescu was executed, feeling a sense of connection to a historical moment.
He acknowledges that his fascination with this type of travel is also tied to a fascination with human cruelty. While he jokingly refers to himself as a “weirdo,” he is not alone in his interest.
True crime podcasts and television shows about murder and crime are incredibly popular. It seems most people, whether they admit it or not, have a morbid curiosity.
The Dark Side of Dark Tourism: Respect, Responsibility, and Sensationalism
While dark tourism can be a powerful way to learn about history and human behavior, it’s important to approach it with respect and responsibility. There have been instances where people have taken selfies and posed disrespectfully at historical sites like Auschwitz.
David, a self-proclaimed dark tourist, recognizes this issue and emphasizes the importance of treating dark tourism as a serious topic. He recalls finding groups of people pretending to be hanged and taking pictures of themselves at historical gallows in the Czech Republic.
The infamous case of YouTuber Logan Paul, who filmed a video in Japan’s “suicide forest” and included footage of a deceased person, highlights the potential for dark tourism to be misused. This incident sparked outrage and raised concerns about the potential for sensationalism and disrespect.
The Ubiquitous Nature of Darkness: Dark Tourism in Everyday Life
The allure of the dark may seem like a niche interest, but it’s woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. Reality shows like Survivor and Banged Up thrive on the appeal of bleak and dark situations. Even a casual visit to a bar where people dress up as prisoners might not seem like dark tourism, but it taps into that same fascination.
The Dark Side of Our History: London’s Uncomfortable Truths
London, with its rich history, is a city built on dark history. The legacy of the British Empire, including oppression, atrocity, and slavery, casts a long shadow over the city. Even the everyday objects we encounter – antique chairs in a restaurant or paintings in a museum – are likely connected to a darker past.
Professor Treadwell suggests that even seemingly innocuous places like Hyde Park hold echoes of our past. He argues that consumerism itself can be seen as a form of dark tourism, as everyday activities like playing Monopoly are often based on darker realities.
Dark Tourism: An Uncomfortable Truth We Can’t Ignore
Whether we acknowledge it or not, we are all engaged with dark tourism in some way. We may find ourselves fascinated by true crime stories, enjoy reality shows that explore dark themes, or even participate in activities that tap into the darker side of human nature.
Professor Treadwell suggests that the more we look for dark tourism, the more we will find it. It’s a reminder that the world is complex and full of both light and darkness, and that even in our everyday lives, we are constantly encountering echoes of the past.
