MapUrbex
A cult manor in urbex
The Joachim Kroll Manor is a legendary urbex site in France.
Abandoned for decades, it fascinates explorers with its bourgeois architecture, frozen interiors, and the dark rumors that surround its history.
The myth around Joachim Kroll
Its name has long intrigued the urbex community. Some claim it refers to Joachim Georg Kroll, a German serial killer active in the 1960s-70s.
The rumor suggests he once hid in this manor, and that terrible events took place there.
👉 Of course, nothing proves this theory. But as often in urbex, legends blend with reality, adding to the site’s eerie aura.
The real explanation: the “Spiral Staircase Manor”
In truth, the manor owes its nickname to a spectacular spiral staircase, the centerpiece of the building.
That’s why it is also known as “Spiral Staircase Manor”, “Beauty Manor”, or even “Blue Butterfly Manor” among explorers.
This confusion between the spiral staircase and the serial killer’s name fueled the myth and gave the place a sinister reputation.
A frozen, dramatic atmosphere
Inside, time seems to have stopped:
- Antique furniture covered in dust,
- Massive fireplaces and elegant moldings,
- Dramatic light filtering through broken windows.
This mix of bourgeois elegance and decay makes it look like a movie set, further intensified by its dark legends.
A fragile and coveted spot
Like many urbex locations, the Joachim Kroll Manor is threatened by decay, vandalism, and looting.
Every visit is a journey through history, mystery, and imagination.
👉 Always leave places untouched: take nothing, break nothing, only explore and document.
Discover more iconic urbex spots near you
The Joachim Kroll Manor is cult, but France is full of abandoned manors, castles, and sites with their own unique legends.
Conclusion
The Joachim Kroll Manor perfectly embodies what makes urbex so fascinating: real places surrounded by dark rumors and unsolved mysteries.
Its spiral staircase, haunted reputation, and intriguing name make it one of the most iconic urbex spots in France.
