Entry No. 86 — the New York City file — filed under: ruins

Ruins of King Zog Estate

Originally built between 1906 and 1920 as the Knollwood Estate, this grand 60-room mansion was purchased in 1951 by King Zog I of Albania to serve as his kingdom-in-exile. He never moved in, and rumors of hidden treasure led vandals to ransack the property before it was demolished in 1959. Today, hikers can explore the crumbling stone staircases, walled gardens, and foundation ruins reclaimed by the surrounding Muttontown Preserve.

The move: Take a scenic hike through the Muttontown Preserve to hunt for the hidden stone ruins, then snap photos together on the grand, moss-covered double staircase.

📍 Before you go The ruins are located on public land within Nassau County's Muttontown Preserve and are legally accessible to hikers via marked trails.

• 📍 Syosset
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 1858 Muttontown Rd, Syosset, NY 11791, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: Atlas Obscura · Untapped Cities

last checked: 2026-07-20