Submarine Base
Location: Balaklava, Ukraine
Year: 1953
Cost: $1.3 billion*
Stalin requested a top-secret designer to build a submarine storage facility after World War II. It must be undetected and covert. Balaklava in Ukraine was identified and a massive bunker was dug. Construction took eight years and $1.3 billion. It closed altogether in 1993 and was left open and unlocked for anyone to use. Seven years later, Ukraine’s army bought it and turned it into a fascinating (and pricey) military museum. Today, guests can explore the unusual tunnels and see Thunderbirds-like scenes. Its rich history makes it a must-see for history buffs or anyone looking for something to do in the neighborhood.
Submarine Base
Athens Olympic Venues
Location: Greece
Year: 2004
Cost: $160 million*
Every Olympic host city is under pressure to go all out. For 2004, Athens was the same. The city spent a staggering $11 billion on the games. The Olympic Village was prepared for competitors with $160 million. The location featured everything athletes needed: training grounds, pools, tracks, and bungalows. After the games, top-notch facilities were abandoned despite the money spent on them. The government hoped to build houses in various regions. Some was reused, but most was wasted. It’s not surprising given Greece’s economic struggles.
Athens Olympic Venues
