Photography Adventure: Visiting an Abandoned Sanatorium

Capturing the Haunting Beauty of an Abandoned Sanatorium Through the Lens

Photography is not just about documenting moments; it also carries a sense of adventure.
For example, even when I set out with a clear intention to photograph something specific, I never truly know what I will capture or how the final result will turn out. It’s this uncertainty and excitement that make every walk a unique experience, giving me a sense of vitality and inspiring me to keep going on photo walks.

This sense of adventure is especially present when photographing something that inherently carries a spirit of mystery and exploration—decaying structures, abandoned objects, and forgotten places. With this in mind, I got into my car and headed to Mount Medvednica, just above Zagreb, where the abandoned sanatorium Brestovac is located.

The Brestovac sanatorium was built in 1909 as a tuberculosis hospital, spearheaded by Dr. Milivoj Dežman, who envisioned it as a place of recovery for those suffering from the disease. It was a state-of-the-art facility for its time, offering patients access to clean air and a peaceful natural environment. However, with advances in medicine and the decline in tuberculosis cases, the sanatorium was gradually abandoned in the mid-20th century, leaving behind only its haunting ruins.

Arriving at the site, at around 800 meters above sea level, the Brestovac revealed itself through the dense trees. With these photographs, I aim to convey the atmosphere of that moment and the experience of discovering a forgotten place steeped in history.

Those of you who enjoyed this adventure can join me on another one I had while visiting an abandoned hospital, which I shared here.

All the photos were taken by the author using a Fuji X-E4 with a 27mm f2.8 lens and a Fujifilm X-H2 with a Sigma 56mm f1.4 lens.