Visiting Inota Abandoned Power Plant

On a crisp day in March 2025, members of the Biatorbágy Photo Club and the Panoráma Photo Association came together for an unforgettable adventure: a guided tour of the abandoned Inota coal power plant in Hungary. This outing was a perfect blend of camaraderie, exploration, and photographic inspiration, set against the backdrop of a decaying industrial giant.

The Inota power plant, once a bustling hub of energy production, now stands as a hauntingly beautiful relic of the past. From the moment we stepped inside, it was clear why this location has captured the imagination of so many. The sheer scale of the place is breathtaking—towering structures, cavernous halls, and rusted machinery stretch out in every direction, offering endless perspectives for photography. Whether you’re drawn to wide-angle shots of the vast, open spaces or close-ups of the intricate details—like peeling paint, weathered pipes, or the play of light through broken windows—Inota delivers.

Our guided tour added an extra layer of depth to the experience. The guide shared fascinating stories about the plant’s history, its operational days, and its gradual decline into abandonment. But what really piqued our interest was learning about its second life as a filming location. Notably, the plant served as a backdrop for scenes in Red Sparrow, the 2018 spy thriller starring Jennifer Lawrence. Standing in those same spaces, it was easy to see why filmmakers are drawn here—the atmosphere is cinematic, with a mix of grandeur and decay that feels straight out of a movie set.

For us photographers, the day was a treasure trove of opportunities. The interplay of natural light streaming through shattered skylights, the textures of corroded metal, and the eerie stillness of the abandoned halls kept our shutters clicking nonstop. Every corner revealed something new, from abstract compositions to stark reminders of the site’s industrial past. It was a playground for creativity, and the collaborative spirit of our two groups made it even more special—sharing tips, pointing out angles, and marveling together at the beauty in the ruins.

The Inota coal power plant isn’t just a forgotten structure; it’s a testament to time, transformation, and the stories that linger in abandoned places. Our visit was a reminder of how photography can breathe new life into the past, capturing fleeting moments in a space that’s slowly being reclaimed by nature. If you ever get the chance to explore it yourself, don’t hesitate—just bring your camera and an open mind.