European ruins through the eyes of a Polish teacher

Once there was a lot of life in these places, people lived and worked here. But time has passed, and for one reason or another they have fallen into disrepair, were abandoned and now they are just a reminder of the glorious old days. Polish history teacher Paty Makowska went on an unusual journey through abandoned European ruins to create this stunning photo gallery of former greatness and beautiful withering.

The Makowska Party captured the grandeur of the withering of places that were once the brightest and busiest on the European continent. (Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

There are still hints of their former greatness in the crumbling buildings — from exquisitely painted ceilings to the splendor of Renaissance architecture and huge halls. (Pati Makowski / Caters News)

The party is originally from Warsaw. She first became interested in photographs of picturesque ruins 12 years ago, when she decided to take pictures of what was left of a medieval castle in the Polish town of Mushin. (Pati Makowski / Caters News)

Then she continued this idea and began photographing the same amazing, but decrepit buildings. However, she will never admit where these pictures were taken. (Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)

(Pati Makowski / Caters News)