Introduction
The concept of ghost towns is not exclusive to America, as Turkey has its fair share of abandoned towns that hold a certain allure. These ghost towns in Turkey tell stories of forgotten history and offer a unique glimpse into the past. Two notable examples are Burj Al Babas and Kayaköy.
Burj Al Babas, often described as a Disney-like ghost town, was intended to be a luxury community for the wealthy. Construction of this unique development began in 2014, with each house designed to resemble a mini-castle inspired by French architecture. However, the project was ultimately abandoned, leaving behind a surreal landscape of half-completed castles. Despite its unfinished state, Burj Al Babas continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur and mystique.
Kayaköy, on the other hand, is a preserved museum village that tells a different tale. This ghost town was once a thriving Greek village known as Levissi. However, following political turmoil and environmental disasters, the village was abandoned, leaving behind hundreds of rundown yet still-standing Greek-style houses and churches. Today, Kayaköy offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with its preserved buildings and its status as an open-air museum.
These ghost towns in Turkey serve as reminders of a bygone era. They offer a unique opportunity to explore the past and understand the stories of those who once inhabited these now deserted places. While some ghost towns may be forgotten, efforts are being made to revitalize and transform others, such as Varosha, once a bustling tourist mecca, and Burj Al Babas. These transformation plans aim to breathe new life into these ghost towns and create vibrant destinations for visitors to enjoy.
Overview of Ghost Towns in Turkey
Turkey is home to a number of fascinating ghost towns that offer a glimpse into the past. Two notable examples are Burj Al Babas and Kayaköy. Burj Al Babas, often referred to as a Disney-like ghost town, was intended to be a luxury community for the wealthy. Construction began in 2014, with each house designed to resemble a mini-castle inspired by French architecture. However, the project was abandoned, leaving behind a surreal landscape of half-completed castles.
Kayaköy, on the other hand, is a preserved museum village that was once a thriving Greek village known as Levissi. However, political turmoil and environmental disasters led to its abandonment. Today, Kayaköy consists of hundreds of rundown but still-standing Greek-style houses and churches, creating an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere.
Both ghost towns serve as reminders of the past and offer unique opportunities for exploration and discovery. They attract visitors who are drawn to the mystery and history of these abandoned places. Whether it’s the unfinished grandeur of Burj Al Babas or the preserved ruins of Kayaköy, these ghost towns in Turkey are captivating destinations for those seeking a glimpse into a forgotten world.
Transformation Plans⁚ Varosha and Burj Al Babas
Efforts are underway to revitalize and transform the ghost towns of Varosha and Burj Al Babas, aiming to breathe new life into these abandoned spaces.
In the case of Varosha, once a thriving tourist mecca in Cyprus, there are plans to turn this ghost town into the ″Las Vegas of the Mediterranean.″ With proposals drawn up, the aim is to create a vibrant resort destination that attracts visitors from around the world. The transformation of Varosha would not only bring economic benefits but also preserve the town’s unique history and charm.
On the other hand, Burj Al Babas, the Disney-like ghost town in Turkey, has caught the interest of potential investors. Despite the project being abandoned, there are now talks of reviving the development and completing the mini-castles that were inspired by French architecture. The transformation plans for Burj Al Babas envision turning it into a luxury community, attracting wealthy vacationers from various countries.
Both Varosha and Burj Al Babas present opportunities to transform ghost towns into thriving destinations once again. These plans not only aim to bring back economic prosperity but also to restore the unique character and history of these abandoned places. As the efforts continue, we may witness the resurrection of these ghost towns as vibrant and picturesque locations, offering visitors a chance to experience their captivating stories.