Kayakoy Ghost Town – An Abandoned Village with a Rich Cultural History
Nestled in the foothills of the Babadag Mountains in southwestern Turkey lies Kayakoy, a village that was once a vibrant, thriving community but is now a ghost town. This abandoned village has a rich cultural history that dates back to the late 18th century and has been home to both Muslim and Christian populations. With its whitewashed houses, rolling hills, and stunning views, Kayakoy is a must-see for any traveler looking to explore a unique and fascinating destination.
A Bit of History
Kayakoy was founded in 1780 by local people of Greek origin and was once a thriving village with a population of around 3,000. It was home to both Greek Orthodox and Muslim communities who lived side-by-side in harmony and traded with each other. In the early 20th century, the village began to decline due to political and social changes in the region. In 1923, the Greek population was forced to leave the village as part of the population exchange between Greece and Turkey. The village was abandoned and the houses were left empty.
Today, the village of Kayakoy is a ghost town, with only around 200 inhabitants. However, the village has been preserved as a reminder of the vibrant culture and history that once existed there. Visitors to Kayakoy will be able to explore the ruins of the once thriving village and gain a unique insight into the past.
Exploring Kayakoy
The village of Kayakoy is spread across a hillside, with winding streets and whitewashed houses. The ruins of the village are a sight to behold, with some buildings still standing and others in ruins. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valley.
At the center of the village is an old church, built in the 19th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church is in ruins, but visitors can still explore the remains. There are also several other churches in the village, including the Church of St. George.
Kayakoy is also home to a range of traditional Turkish restaurants, offering local dishes such as kebabs, rice, and Turkish coffee. Visitors can also sample a variety of local fruits and vegetables, as well as delicious homemade desserts.
Visiting Kayakoy
Kayakoy is located just outside the town of Fethiye, in southwestern Turkey. The village can be easily reached by car or bus, with bus services running from Fethiye to Kayakoy several times a day. Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a car to get there.
Kayakoy is open to visitors year-round, with the best time to visit being in the spring or autumn. The village is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, with an admission fee of 5 Turkish Lira.
Conclusion
Kayakoy is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors the chance to explore a once thriving village and gain insight into its rich cultural history. With its whitewashed houses, rolling hills, and stunning views, Kayakoy is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring a unique and fascinating destination.