While
not exactly a ruin, the Principality of Sealand is owned by the Bates family
and they declared this old fort as a sovereign state. In a bid to 'legitamize' their nation, the Royal Family established their own flag, currency and an official website.
Originally part of a contingent of sea forts created by the British during World War 2, all were abandoned except for one.
Major Paddy Roy Bates in 1967 took over one such fort, claimed it an independent and sovereign nation and declared his family as royalty. Although it is not recognized as an official nation, the English Court decreed that since the fort was in international waters, it is therefore outside their jurisdiction.
Currently there are plans to build a casino on Sealand in 2012 but further expansion will be limited due to its size.
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