A mosaic of ruins and memories
Kayaköy, located in Muğla province in the heart of southwestern Turkey, is a place that evokes a vibrant past, but now stands as a monument to oblivion. With its narrow streets and decaying buildings, this abandoned city tells a story that has been stuck in time.
A past full of life
More than a century ago, Kayaköy, known as Levissi, was a bustling community of nearly 10,000 inhabitants, mainly Greek Orthodox Christians, who lived in harmony with Muslim Turkish farmers. Their daily life was marked by handicrafts and agriculture, creating an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence.
The storm of change
The peaceful existence of Kayaköy was shattered by the rise of tensions between Turkey and Greece, culminating in the war of 1922. The consequence of these conflicts was the forced expulsion of the population, which led to an exchange traumatic with Kavala Muslims. This change left the city uninhabited and in decline.
A pattern of decay
Over the years, the ruins of Kayaköy have been devoured by vegetation and decay. Of the 2,500 homes that existed, many have disappeared or lost their original charm. Now, only remnants of a glorious time remain, which invite reflection on what was.
The gaze of the visitors
Today, Kayaköy has become a tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over. For just three euros, the curious can explore this stone labyrinth, where nature and history intertwine. Informative signs mark the old school, churches and water fountain, offering a fascinating tour of its past.
Reflections on the past
Jane Akatay, co-author of a guide to Kayaköy, suggests that the gloom that surrounds the place is a reminder of the tragic events that marked the 1920s. Nature, with its transformative power, has helped to hide the traces of human civilization, leaving only an echo of what it once was.
An uncertain future
Kayaköy not only represents a lost chapter in history, but is also a reminder of the consequences of human conflict. With each visit, tourists not only discover ruins, but also connect with the stories of the people who once inhabited this space. The future of Kayaköy remains an unknown, but its legacy lives on in the memory of all those who tread its paths.
