Mysteries of the Abandoned Season 10 Episode 21 Liberia's Tower of Ruin

Liberia's Tower of Ruin is the twenty-first episode of the tenth season of Mysteries of the Abandoned. This episode explores a tower located in Liberia, West Africa that was once a symbol of progress and innovation but is now abandoned and decaying. The tower was intended to be a representation of the country's economic growth and technological advancements, but it was abruptly abandoned in the mid-1980s amid political unrest and economic collapse.

The episode follows a team of experts as they explore the tower and its ruins, attempting to unravel the mysteries of its past. They begin by surveying the exterior of the tower, which stands over 50 meters tall and dominates the surrounding landscape. The experts note that the tower's construction is remarkably strong, featuring reinforced concrete and steel beams. However, they also observe signs of neglect and decay, including rusting metal and cracked concrete.

Entering the tower, the team discovers several levels of abandoned offices, meeting rooms, and laboratories. They find evidence of past research projects, including remnants of electronic equipment and chemical samples. However, it becomes clear that the tower was abandoned in a hurry, as many items are left scattered and disorganized.

One particularly intriguing discovery is a room filled with books and files containing information on Liberia's history and culture. The team pores over these documents, searching for clues about the tower's original purpose and the reasons for its abandonment. They learn that the tower was constructed in the 1970s, at a time when Liberia's economy was rapidly expanding. The tower was intended to house government offices, as well as private businesses and research facilities. It was seen as a symbol of progress and modernity, a beacon of hope for the future of Liberia.

However, the tower's fate took a dark turn as the country's political situation became increasingly unstable. Liberia's longtime president, William Tolbert, was overthrown in a violent coup in 1980. The new military regime cracked down on dissent and opposition, leading to a period of violence and chaos. Meanwhile, economic conditions worsened, with inflation skyrocketing and businesses struggling to survive. Many of the companies that had planned to relocate to the tower went bankrupt, leaving the building largely unoccupied.

As the experts continue their investigation, they encounter several challenges, including structural damage, hazardous materials, and unexpected obstacles. They also hear stories of local myths and legends surrounding the tower, such as rumors of secret laboratories and hidden treasure. However, they remain focused on uncovering the truth about the tower's past and its significance to Liberia's history.

In the end, the team pieces together a complex story of political upheaval, economic collapse, and ruined ambitions. They discover that the tower was abandoned not only due to external factors such as violence and economic collapse, but also due to internal corruption and mismanagement. The tower, once a symbol of hope and progress, now stands as a monument to the dangers of unchecked ambition and misplaced priorities.

Overall, Liberia's Tower of Ruin is a thought-provoking and fascinating entry in the Mysteries of the Abandoned series. It sheds light on a little-known piece of history and gives viewers a glimpse into the complex forces that shape the destiny of nations and their buildings. For anyone interested in architecture, history, or politics, this episode is a must-see.