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Kayaköy Ghost Village: Fethiye's Abandoned History and Population Exchange Legacy

Kayaköy, located near Fethiye, is a poignant Ghost Village consisting of hundreds of ruined stone houses abandoned after the Greek-Turkish population exchange. The village, formerly known as Livissi, is a symbol of shared cultural heritage and offers visitors the chance to explore its historical ruins and the tranquility of the surrounding nature from the Panagia Pyrgiotissa Church.

Kayaköy Blog Post: A Journey into Turkey's Abandoned Village

👻 Kayaköy: Whispers of History

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of southwestern Turkey lies Kayaköy, a hauntingly beautiful ghost town with a rich history and a unique atmosphere. Known as Karmylassos in ancient times and Livissi during the Ottoman era, Kayaköy once thrived as a vibrant community of Greek and Turkish inhabitants living side by side. However, the events of the early 20th century, particularly the population exchange, transformed this once-thriving village into the hauntingly serene place it is today.

📜 A Glimpse into History

Kayaköy's story is intertwined with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the aftermath of the Greco-Turkish War (1919-1922). This exchange led to the relocation of Greek Orthodox Christians from Turkey to Greece and Muslims from Greece to Turkey, resulting in the abandonment of Kayaköy. Today, its empty stone houses and churches stand as silent witnesses to the village's past.

🍃 The Atmosphere of Kayaköy

Walking through Kayaköy today, visitors are greeted by rows of crumbling stone houses, their walls adorned with remnants of old stucco and paint. Despite being devoid of its former residents, the village exudes a peaceful and almost mystical ambiance. Olive trees and wildflowers have taken root among the ruins, adding to the village's rustic charm.

🔎 Exploring the Ruins

A visit to Kayaköy offers the opportunity to explore well-preserved ruins such as hundreds of abandoned houses, two Greek Orthodox churches, a school, and various other structures. The larger church, Panagia Pyrgiotissa, prominently stands on a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Walking through the narrow streets and alleys, visitors can imagine the bustling life that once filled Kayaköy before its inhabitants departed.

🏛️ Cultural Significance and Location

Kayaköy is not only a testament to the historical events that shaped modern Turkey but also a symbol of the shared cultural heritage of Greek and Turkish communities. Efforts have been made to preserve the village as a cultural monument. Kayaköy is easily accessible from nearby Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, both popular tourist destinations on Turkey's Mediterranean coast.

Kayaköy Ghost Village: Fethiye's Abandoned History and Population Exchange Legacy

Kayaköy Ghost Village: Fethiye's Abandoned History and Population Exchange Legacy

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