Abandoned Engineering

The abandoned residences of an African dictator and a celebrated athlete, together with the former detention centre of apartheid’s most prominent opponent, remain standing. Although deserted, each location still holds its unique story, reflecting the contrasting legacies of power, sport and political dissent.

is a television episode that falls within the programme genre. It is presented as a self‑contained instalment, offering viewers a concise look at a handful of historically charged sites. The episode centres on three deserted locations: the former home of an African dictator, the house once occupied by a celebrated sporting hero, and the facility that housed apartheid’s most prominent critic. Though each place now stands empty, the programme draws attention to the distinct narratives that linger within their walls. By touring these abandoned settings, the show illustrates how silence can still convey powerful histories. The deserted dictator’s residence hints at a legacy of authoritarian rule, the sporting hero’s house reflects personal triumphs once celebrated on the world stage, and the detention facility bears witness to the struggle against apartheid. Together, these sites demonstrate that even in abandonment, places can retain unique stories waiting to be heard.