Why are travelers flocking to the world’s darkest places? In this episode, we explore the rise of dark tourism—visits to battlegrounds, prisons, and sites of catastrophe—and the complicated ethics behind a booming, multi-billion-dollar industry. From Syria’s ruins and former torture sites to war-scarred Ukraine and the aftermath of terror attacks, today’s travelers aren’t just seeking beauty; they’re seeking the shadow of history. Social media has only accelerated the trend, turning once-forbidden zones into viral destinations. But what separates a voyeur taking a crass selfie from a traveler trying to bear witness? And why does the line matter now more than ever?

https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/12/04/why-do-tourists-visit-sites-of-atrocities