The Most Heavily Guarded Things Around The World
By molly atherton
8 months ago
Welcome to the covert, the classified, and the cryptic! We're diving into a world where secrets are stashed away under lock and key, where guardians stand watch with unyielding vigilance, and where curiosity meets its match. Get ready to peek behind the curtain of mystery as we uncover the most fiercely guarded treasures, vaults, and enigmatic entities the world has ever known. From heavily fortified fortresses to closely kept recipes, join us on a thrilling journey.
HavenCo Ltd. HQ, UK
Nestled six miles off the southeastern coast of England, HavenCo's headquarters stood as a beacon of defiance against the conventional norms of governance. Perched atop pillars rising from the sea, this audacious data hosting company dared to dream of autonomy.
Image Source: Twitter
HavenCo HQ was located 6 miles off the coast of southeast England, and as you might have realised, it was planted on top of some pillars. They were a data hosting company that attempted to found their own principality with their own rules on copyright and intellectual property. It didn't last long though, only eight years.Original content sourced from Femanin.comThe Doomsday Seed Vault, Norway
Picture this: nestled deep within the icy embrace of Norway, a structure emerges, a testament to human foresight and the ultimate insurance policy against catastrophe. This isn't your ordinary vault; it's a doomsday fortress straight out of a futuristic blockbuster.
Image Source: Wired
This doomsday vault might look like something out of a sci-fi film, and I suppose in a way it kind of is just like that. This Norwegian vault could actually save the world in the future as it a secure backup facility for the entirety of the world's crops. Yep, every kind of seed is safely protected here just in case of disaster.Bank Of England's Gold Vault, UK
Step into the heart of financial security, where the glint of gold casts a mesmerizing glow amid an atmosphere steeped in impenetrable fortitude. Here, within the illustrious confines of the Bank of England vault, lies an astonishing treasure trove that stands as a testament to wealth unparalleled.
Image Source: Bleyer Bullion
Unsurprisingly, one of the largest storage spaces of gold in the entire world is heavily guarded! The Bank of England vault contains over 4 million (yes 4 MILLION) tons of gold, how much is that worth?? The doors only open thanks to voice recognition and the doors are bomb proof. Very Secure!ADX Florence, Colorado
Deep in the heart of Florence, Colorado, lies a fortress of isolation and confinement that echoes with the weight of its occupants' notoriety. The Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX), commonly dubbed the "Alcatraz of the Rockies," stands as a grim testament to the pinnacle of prison security in the United States.
Image Source: The Denver Post
The ADX is a supermax prison located in Florence, Colorado; and houses over 300 high-risk inmates who are confined to single cells where they spend 23 hours of their day alone. Also known as the Alcatraz of the Rockies Houses the most dangerous male inmates in the US prison system.Iron Mountain Storage Facility, Pennsylvania
Journey into the labyrinthine depths of history and secrecy, where the past finds refuge within the cavernous embrace of an ancient limestone mine—a fortress within the Earth's very core. Here, shielded by the natural fortifications of stone, lies one of Iron Mountain's most renowned facilities.
Image Source: Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain are a well known record management company that have over 1500 storage facilities around the world. Their most well-known facility is found within an old limestone mine protected by two waves of armed guards. This facility holds Bill Gates' Corbis collection in a refrigerated cave!Fort Knox, Kentucky
In the realm of preserving history's most precious artifacts, Iron Mountain stands as an indomitable force, a titan in the art of safeguarding legacies. With a staggering global network boasting over 1,500 storage facilities, they've carved a niche beyond conventional record-keeping.
Image Source: Gold Avenue
Fort Knox is one of the most well-known US army installations and is adjacent to US' bullion depository. The fortified vault is one of the most well-protected places in the world and holds nearly $300bn worth of gold. It's so well protected in fact that the vaults combinations are changed multiple times a day!The Federal Reserve, New York
Beneath the bustling streets of New York City lies a realm shrouded in intrigue and opulence—an underground domain that houses the very cornerstone of wealth itself. The Federal Reserve Building stands as a testament to economic might, its fourteen towering above-ground floors merely a prelude to the hidden world beneath.
Image Source: Untapped Cities
New York's federal reserve building has fourteen above ground floors, but the good stuff is held in the basement levels. The gold vault, 80m below street level is the largest gold reserve in the world, with experts suggesting that a quarter of all known gold in the world is stored here. The vault is airtight, meaning there isn't even any oxygen down there!Area 51, Nevada
Nestled within the vast expanse of the Nevada desert lies a veil of mystery and intrigue—the enigmatic shroud known as Area 51. Cloaked in secrecy, this remote base has become a canvas for the most fantastical of speculations and the most gripping of conspiracy theories.
Image Source: Reddit
Details surrounding Area 51 are very vague, and there are no concrete examples of any operations here. It has become a popular source for conspiracy theories, particularly regarding aliens. Either way it's extremely well protected with buried motion sensors surrounding the area and no one even US military are allowed to fly over its airspace.Vatican Apostolic Archive, Vatican City
Nestled within the hallowed walls of Vatican City lies a repository veiled in an air of mystique and historical significance—the Vatican Secret Archive. Renowned for its wealth of knowledge and enigmatic contents, this repository, once known as the Vatican Secret Archive, is a testament to centuries of ecclesiastical history.
Image Source: Roman Catholic Diocese Of Burlington
Formerly known as the Vatican Secret Archive, this facility holds over 85 km of shelves and more than 35,000 church related documents from around the world. Examples of documents known to be held here include Henry VIII's divorce requests and the acts surrounding Galileo's trial.The Mormon Vaults, Utah
Deep within the rugged expanse of Utah's mountains lies a clandestine sanctuary—one that harbors not just the devout beliefs of a religious faith, but the very essence of familial history. Unbeknownst to many, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints boasts a vault nestled within the heart of these majestic peaks—a hidden trove that transcends the ordinary bounds of preservation.
Image Source: The Rosetta Project
You might not know this, but The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a vault buried in to a mountain in Utah! This is another storage facility holding over 3 billion pages of family records. It's larger than a football field and the entrance doors are said to be able to survive a nuclear blast!Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Colorado
Nestled within the depths of a mountain lies a testament to the resilience and strategic foresight of an era marked by geopolitical tension—the former bastion of the US Space Command during the harrowing days of the Cold War.
Image Source: Wired
Seemingly, all the safe places are built into mountain-sides! This was a former base of operations during the Cold War and housed the center for US Space command. They watched for any potential missiles that were fired at the US and it was protected by over 2000 ft of Granite.The Korean DMZ, North And South Korea
The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) stands as a stark testament to a divided nation—its expanse a physical embodiment of the tensions that have persisted for decades. Stretching across the border between North and South Korea, this land holds a haunting resonance.
Image Source: Reddit
The Korean DMZ is a long stretch of land between the borders of both North and South Korea separating the two countries. As a result of the tensions between the two countries it is permanently guarded on both sides and no one is permitted to cross or they risk death. Some crazy people still try to defect however.Air Force One, USA
Absolutely, Air Force One isn't just a plane; it's a flying fortress designed to safeguard the leader of the free world at all costs. Operating beyond the confines of any single nation, this iconic aircraft serves as the pinnacle of security and functionality, a mobile command center that transcends borders.
Image Source: Reddit
Yeah, so this can't really be nailed down to one specific country at all times, but Air Force One is the name of the most protected plane in the world. It's the President's plane and its permanently on lockdown; it has features to protect it against EMP's and it can also refuel in the air in case the landing spot is unsafe.RAAF Woomera, Australia
The Woomera Range Complex isn't just another patch of land—it's a sprawling expanse of territory that eclipses the size of entire nations. Spanning a colossal area comparable to the entirety of North Korea, this complex stands as a colossal proving ground.
Image Source: McMahon Services
The Woomera Range Complex is around the same size as the whole of North Korea and is known as the largest land-based test range in the world. Yep, essentially this whole area is used to test missiles. So realistically why would you ever want to try and break in to this location anyway?Pionen Data Center, Sweden
Nestled within the steadfast embrace of a mountain, the Pionen Data Center stands as a marvel of technological fortitude, housed within what was once a Swedish civil defense center. This imposing fortress, once designated to protect the government, has transformed...
Image Source: Data Center Dynamics
The Pionen Data Center is located in a former Swedish civil defence center originally built to protect the government. You might have heard of this place as they actually hosted WikiLeaks! The facility, being buried under a mountain is extremely safe and is only reachable via a 40 cm thick vault door. It's believed this building could even survive a hydrogen bomb.The Greenbrier, West Virginia
The juxtaposition of a serene spa resort and a heavily guarded bunker may seem paradoxical, but beneath the façade of luxury lies a hidden stronghold—a place where relaxation and security converge in a unique harmony.
Image Source: Travel Awaits
Okay so, you might be wondering why a spa resort is featured in a list of heavily guarded places, I mean anyone (with money) can go here! But this resort has actually held more than 20 presidents, and beneath the resort is a bunker built during the cold war in order to protect any members of congress nearby.Parksafe, UK
In the sprawling landscape of fortified locations, one might not expect a humble car park to feature among the most secure places in the world. Yet, tucked away within the UK's terrain lies a remarkable anomaly—a parking lot that defies convention and stands as a paragon of cutting-edge security.
Image Source: Derby City Council
Now, it seems extremely obscure to go from the president's planes and resorts, prisons and mountain vaults to a car park in the UK but this is now listed as one of the most secure places in the world. Essentially, there's no way to sneak your car in here with state of the art sensors and computer systems. They even offer to cover any damage your car receives, that's how confident they are.Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
The mention of Guantanamo conjures a somber reminder of a place entwined with the complexities of security and justice—a name synonymous with the aftermath of the 2001 attacks, a facility that stands at the intersection of geopolitics and international security.
Image Source: The Times
This is one of the places you probably expected to feature on this list, we all know Guantanamo as the place built to house terrorists after the 2001 attacks. For this reason, security is extremely secure with armed guards, wired fences and even mine fields surrounding the island detention center.The Tumen River, North Korea, China and Russia
The Tumen River, a seemingly tranquil waterway, stands as a border of both hope and peril for North Koreans seeking an escape from the confines of their isolated homeland. This river, meandering along the boundary between North Korea, China, and Russia, is more than just a geographical divide.
Image Source: Koryo Tours
Another very guarded part of North Korea is the Tumen River, another place in which North Koreans attempt to defect from their country in to another, like Russia or China. This is due to the North Koreans not wanting any defectors to reveal any secrets and any attempts caught likely end in death.Iranian Gold Reserve, Iran
The Iranian gold reserve stands as an enigmatic treasure, veiled in secrecy and shrouded in the mystique of its concealment. Within the borders of the country lies a testament to the fortitude of security measures, where the location of this gold repository remains a closely guarded secret known only to a select cadre of officials and military personnel.
Image Source: Iran News Update
The Iranian gold reserve is so well guarded that no one, apart from a select few officials and military personnel know where it even is. No one knows how long its existed or how much gold it holds, all they know is that it exists somewhere within the country. It has to be a lot surely?The Swiss Vaults, Switzerland
The Swiss vaults, nestled within the majestic embrace of the Alps, are a testament to security and meticulous planning that transcends the ordinary bounds of protection. These legendary repositories, ensconced within the very heart of nature's fortress, embody the pinnacle of impenetrability.
Image Source: The Economic Times
The Swiss vaults have become legendary for their authentic nature and straight up impenetrability. They are buried in to the alps meaning there's only one way in and one way out of each vault. Either way, it's almost impossible to break in to them no matter your level of skill.The 1960's Bar, UK
Deep within the rolling hills of Wiltshire, England, lies a subterranean marvel—the clandestine Burlington Bunker Complex. Buried a staggering 100 feet beneath the earth's surface, this hidden labyrinth served as a refuge for the UK's government officials during an era fraught with the looming specter of the Cold War.
Image Source: Somerset Live
This is just one of the buildings buried 100 feet below the Burlington Bunker Complex in Wiltshire, England. This was once popular with the UK's government officials, particularly during the height of the Cold War when people thought that a bombing was a very realistic possibility.The Bohemian Grove, California
Nestled within the serene redwoods of California lies the secretive sanctuary known as Bohemian Grove—a haven that plays host to the enigmatic Bohemian Club. This gentlemen's club, shrouded in secrecy, convenes every two weeks, drawing a cohort of influential individuals from diverse spheres of society.
Image Source: Vanity Fair
Bohemian Grove is the home to a gentlemen's club known as the Bohemian Club that meet up every 2 weeks; affluent people like the president, musicians and other people of power often attend. This area is obviously off limits to the public and people have been arrested trying to break in.RAF Menwith Hill, UK
RAF Menwith Hill, shrouded in secrecy and perched atop the picturesque Yorkshire landscape, is an enigmatic nexus of communication intelligence and surveillance—a cornerstone of transatlantic cooperation between the UK and the US.
Image Source: The Economic Times
RAF Menwith Hill has become well renowned as one of the most secretive places in the world, and it's odd structures make it even more obscure. They provide communication intelligence to both the UK and the US and can also detect any attacking missiles. It is also thought to monitor the satellites in space so is obviously heavily guarded.Ni'Hau, Hawaii
This isn't just another island paradise; it's a highly coveted and strategic location primarily used as a military base by the United States. Its importance stems from its pivotal geographical position, making it an ideal site for naval and military operations in the region.
Image Source: TripSavvy
This island is off limits to all outsiders except from the US Navy, government officials and some lucky invited guests (and its native inhabitants). It is occasionally used as a place for the US Navy to practice some special operations. Good luck ever visiting this beautiful island, it's near impossible.The White House, Washington D.C
The White House, an iconic symbol of American power and governance, stands as a fortress enveloped in layers of security, safeguarding the nation's highest office and its occupants. The extensive measures are implemented across its 18 acres of fortified land.
Image Source: Reddit
The outer area of the White House is covered by 18 acres of guarded and fortified land in order to keep the president and his worker safe. All the windows are made with bulletproof glass and there are a wide range of other security devices like infrared scanners, an iron gate and an air filtration systems amongst others.Buckingham Palace, UK
Buckingham Palace, an iconic symbol of British royalty and history, stands as both a regal residence and a bastion of security for the monarchy. While the palace graciously opens some areas to the public during select times, its security measures remain steadfast, ensuring the safety and sanctity of this royal abode.
Image Source: CTV News
Buckingham Palace is essentially the residence and HQ for the British Monarchy, and although some areas are available to the public at certain times of the year it remains heavily protected. The Kings Guard (the red suited men with black hats) are permanently located outside protecting the building with their stern faces on.Tower Of London, UK
The Tower of London, steeped in centuries of British history and home to invaluable treasures of the monarchy, stands as an iconic fortress and a custodian of the nation's heritage. Within its storied walls, priceless artifacts and the Crown Jewels are safeguarded.
Image Source: Reddit
The tower of London has housed priceless artifacts relating to the UK's various monarchs for centuries. Over this time it has always remained guarded by a Major General and its guards and it's also monitored via a control center. The Jewels within the tower are protected via 2 inch thick shatter proof glass and tower guard are constantly roaming.The Pentagon, Virginia
The Pentagon, an architectural marvel and the nerve center of the United States' Department of Defense, isn't just an office building; it's a symbol of national security and resilience. This sprawling complex, boasting the title of the world's largest office building.
Image Source: Live Science
As we all know, The Pentagon is the headquarters for the US' department of defense and is also the largest office building in the world. It has its own kings guard type defence known as the Pentagon Force Protection Agency and in general, due to its importance it is permanently heavily guarded to protect the country as a whole.The Kremlin, Russia
The Kremlin, a historical and political nucleus of Russia, serves as both a residence for the country's leaders and a bastion of heritage and culture. Its name, meaning "fortress inside a city," encapsulates its significance as a stronghold at the heart of Moscow, embodying centuries of history and power.
Image Source: Reddit
The Kremlin houses Vladimir Putin and his predecessors, and its name literally means fortress inside a city. Despite this, it actually partly opens its doors as a museum, letting in over 3,000,000 people every year. Obviously, as Putin resides here it has to be permanently protected, despite him having limited opposing characters in the country.The Most Heavily Guarded People In The World: Vladimir Putin
The security detail surrounding the Russian president is indeed formidable, embodying an unparalleled commitment to safeguarding the highest office in the nation. With a retinue of approximately 3000 bodyguards, the president's protection extends beyond mere physical presence...
image source: medium.com
The Russian president is one of the most protected people in the world, with a whopping 3000 bodyguards (at least!) in his service, tasked with being his guard. He also has a collection of armored cars for his travels, as well as a security unit that's specificially tasked with collecting information on any possible threats.Donald Trump
The security arrangements around former President Donald Trump reflect an unparalleled commitment to protection, emphasizing the magnitude of safeguarding a figure of global significance. Despite his tenure in office having ended, the security measures in place to ensure his safety are extensive and robust.
image source: medium.com
Even though Trump is no longer the president of the US, he's still one of the most protected people on the planet - because he can afford it! He's actually the most protected billionaire, with over 1000 bodyguards to his name and security budget of around 120 million dollars a year.Kim Jong Un
The security measures surrounding the Supreme Leader of North Korea are emblematic of an unparalleled commitment to safeguarding the highest office in the nation. With a vast security detail comprising over 90,000 soldiers, the protection provided is nothing short of formidable.
image source: medium.com
The Supreme Leader of North Korea is also a very well protected man indeed - no surprise there. He has over 90,000 soldiers to work for his protection, as well as 12 very highly trained martial artists who have the job of jogging alongside his car when he's traveling anywhere.Pope Francis
The security surrounding the Pope, particularly within the Vatican City, stands as a testament to the commitment to protecting one of the world's most revered religious figures. Pope Francis, as the leader of the Catholic Church, resides within the fortified confines of the Vatican.
image source: medium.com
Of course the Pope is one of the most protected people in the world! Pope Francis is also the most protected religious leader in the world, as well as the fact he resides in one of the most heavily guarded cities in the world, too: the Vatican. The Swiss guard are responsible for his protection.Vladimir Lenin
The extraordinary security measures surrounding Vladimir Lenin's mausoleum are a testament to the enduring significance and reverence bestowed upon the former Soviet leader, even after his passing. Despite being deceased, Lenin's preserved body continues to be one of the most guarded and revered relics in the world.
image source: medium.com
The interesting thing about this one is that Vladimir Lenin remains one of the most protected people in the world - even though he's dead. His body in its mausoleum has protection around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The former Soviet leader remains something Russia believes worth protecting!Mark Zuckerberg
Mark Zuckerberg's commitment to personal security is indeed extensive and reflective of his prominence as the creator of Facebook. With a security budget estimated at around 20 million dollars, his measures go beyond the standard protocols.
image source: medium.com
Of course the creator of Facebook is going to protect himself a little. He can afford it! Zuckerberg has paid out around 20 million dollars for his security team, including bodyguards for both his home and for himself when he's traveling around. He's even surrounded by bodyguards out for a jog!Jay Z and Beyoncé
Beyoncé and Jay-Z, as a power couple of immense fame and influence, have invested significantly in their personal security. Their status as global icons necessitates stringent measures to safeguard their privacy, property, and, notably, the safety of their family.
image source: medium.com
Beyonce and Jay Z are big names as individuals, but together they're the ultimate power couple than needs even more security than before. They've paid a lot of money for their protection, which includes their LA home, as well as security detail specifically for their children.El Chapo
Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, notorious for his leadership in drug trafficking, maintains an intricate and extreme security detail reflective of his notoriety and the dangers surrounding his life. His constant concern for safety is evident in the meticulous measures taken to protect himself from threats.
image source: medium.com
In case you've never heard of him, El Chapo - or Hawkin Guzman - is a drug lord who has a 24/7 security guard on him - and, even more extreme, there's a security guard whose job is to watch the other security guard! He has to sleep in a different place every night, and even has to get his food tested before eating in case of poisoning.Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia
The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, known for his immense wealth and influence, is also notable for the extensive security measures surrounding him. His status as a prominent royal figure, coupled with the wealth amassed through his family's business ventures, necessitates robust security measures.
image source: skynews.com
The crown prince of Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest people on the planet, both through being royalty and because of his family oil firm business. He's also one of the most well protected, and he's paid a lot for that privilege. He's spent over 20 billion dollars on military equipment, and has over 1000 people on his security team.King Charles
As the newly appointed monarch, King Charles steps into the role as one of the most protected figures in the world, inheriting not just the title but also the immense security apparatus that comes with being the King of England.
image source: thenewyorker.com
The newly appointed King Charles has now filled his late mother's shoes on being one of the most protected people on the planet, now that he's the official monarch. As King of England, Charles has his own personal king's guard at the palace, as well as a huge security detail anywhere he goes.Xi Jinping
The President of the People's Republic of China assumes a prominent role on the global stage, and with that comes the necessity for a robust security apparatus. His position as a significant world leader warrants stringent measures to ensure his safety and the stability of the nation.
image source: thenewyorktimes.com
The President of the People's Republic of China is a controversial world leader - which is the definition of 'needing a lot of security'. The central security bureau is responsible for his protection, which includes drones, helicopters and over 5000 armed guards focusing on any potential threat.King Mohammed VI
King Mohammed VI, as the leader of Morocco, commands extensive security measures reflective of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in his position. The recent incident during a parade underscores the constant vigilance and preparedness of his security detail in ensuring his safety.
image source: youtube.com
King Mohammed VI recently proved why he needs such expensive security when a man ran at his car during a parade before being tackled by security! The leader of Morocco is one of the most guarded people in Africa - and the world. His security includes an armored vehicle convoy and even an ambulance just in case.Rishi Sunak
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom occupies a pivotal position in the nation's leadership, requiring a robust security detail to ensure safety and continuity in governance. While the level of security might not match that of the monarch, it remains a crucial aspect of safeguarding a key political figure.
image source: civilserviceworld.com
The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom also has some serious protection as a leading politician. While the monarch of the United Kingdom (King Charles) has the most protection, that sort of security is also spread to the ruling PM of the UK. His security includes high speed motorcycles and personal security guards.Recep Tayyip Erdogan
The President of Turkey, known for his high-profile status and the challenges inherent in his leadership, maintains an extensive and formidable security apparatus to ensure his safety and continuity in governance. At the heart of this security detail lies the elite and specially named "Mustacheers".
image source: duvarenglish.com
The President of Turkey's security detail is so expensive and elite it even has a special name: the 'Mustacheers' are a 60-man personal bodyguard team, but that's not all he has. He has around 3,000 security officials including snipers, agents and cops to keep him safe.Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, formerly known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have indeed faced heightened security challenges following their decision to step back from their royal duties and relocate. This transition brought about significant discussions and debates regarding the funding for their security arrangements.
image source: marieclaire.com
This pair have had to up their security quite a bit since all the drama with leaving the royal family/leaving the UK. It's been a bit of a controversy who was going to pay for it all, after Canada refused to pay for security while they were there! But they remain one of the most protected couples in the world. There was close to 5 million dollars spent on their wedding security alone.Joe Biden
The President of the United States is undeniably one of the most heavily protected individuals globally, and this level of security extends to President Biden as well. The Secret Service, an elite agency renowned for its protective duties, serves as the primary force responsible for the President's security.
image source: thetimesofisrael.com
image source: theirishtimes.com