Explore the Haunting Beauty of Kayaköy: Turkey's Abandoned 'Ghost Village' Rich in History and Culture

Kayaköy is a fascinating place in Turkey, often referred to as the "Ghost Village." Located in the Fethiye district of the Muğla Province, it was once a bustling Greek village before being abandoned in the early 20th century. The village was deserted after the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923, following the Turkish War of Independence.

Ancient and Medieval Period:

• Ancient Roots: The area around Kayaköy has been inhabited since antiquity, with evidence of ancient settlements in the region. It was part of the Lycian civilization, known for its rock-cut tombs and ruins.
• Byzantine Era: During the Byzantine period, the area continued to be settled and developed. The remains of churches and other buildings from this era are still visible in Kayaköy today.

Ottoman Period:

• 19th Century: In the 19th century, Kayaköy, then known as Levissi, was a thriving Greek Orthodox village within the Ottoman Empire. It was known for its distinctive stone architecture and vibrant community life.
• Early 20th Century: The village was part of the wider context of political and social changes occurring in the region. The decline of the Ottoman Empire and the tensions between Greeks and Turks influenced the area's fate.

Population Exchange and Abandonment:

• 1923 Population Exchange: Following the Turkish War of Independence and the Treaty of Lausanne, the 1923 population exchange between Greece and Turkey resulted in the Greek inhabitants of Kayaköy being relocated to Greece. Turkish immigrants from Greece moved into the area, but many of them chose to settle elsewhere.
• Abandonment: As a result of the population exchange and the subsequent economic difficulties, Kayaköy was largely abandoned. The village's houses, churches, and other structures were left to decay, creating the "ghost village" we see today.

Modern Era:

• Tourism and Preservation: In recent decades, Kayaköy has become a popular tourist destination. Efforts have been made to preserve the ruins and maintain the historical and cultural significance of the site. The village attracts visitors interested in history, architecture, and the poignant reminder of its past.

Today, Kayaköy is a popular tourist attraction, known for its well-preserved, though deserted, stone houses and churches. The ruins offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. It's also a place of historical and cultural significance, with its streets and buildings providing insight into the lives of its former inhabitants.