KAYAKÖY: GHOST TOWN VS. TOURIST ATTRACTION

An off-the-beaten-path destination is how some would describe the ghost town of Kayaköy, which is located near Fethiye, Turkey. We refuse to. Maybe not at the top of most travellers’ lists. Nevertheless, in recent years, more people have been going there. Especially after Kayaköy was selected by Russell Crowe as the perfect setting for his movie The Water Diviner.

After the village fell into a state of dormancy due to the population exchange after the Greco-Turkish War in 1923 and the devastating earthquake that struck in 1957, destroying the majority of Kayaköy’s buildings, this restored Kayaköy’s prominence. The short answer to the question “is Kayaköy worth a visit?” is “yes!”

Overview Of Kayaköy Ghost Village From The Upper Chapel

KAYAKÖY LETS YOUR IMAGINATION RUN WILD

You can use your imagination to the fullest when you stroll through the village after reading about its past. Here, until July 1923, Christians and Muslims coexisted in peace. Then, the population exchange outlined in the Lausanne Treaty mandated that Christians residing in Turkey be sent back to Greece. Muslims also had to relocate from Greece to Turkey in order to ensure that one faith existed in each nation.

You can further enhance the village’s unique vibe by visiting it during a time other than the busiest travel season. Stroll leisurely down the cobblestone streets of the village. You won’t have to wait long to experience the tranquilly despite its tragic background. Remember to stop by the white chapel at the settlement’s highest point. A delightful surprise awaits you: a full 360-degree view of the valley and the ocean.

One Of The Two Chapels On The Hills Above Kayaköy

The Painted Walls And Ceiling Must Have Been Mind Blowing

There are remarkable much buildings still standing.

KAYAKÖY SHOWS THE BEAUTY OF DECAY

Yes, decay may have beauty. In Kayaköy, it is even tangible. Given that the community is still relatively new, perhaps this explains why it is so simple to relate to things here. As with many other Turkish sites, Kayaköy is currently a protected area. The fact that we are discussing relatively recent history sets Kayaköy apart from other sites.
This is not an ancient site featuring Greek or Roman columns, a theatre, or any other such features. This village is typical, however it has become a ghost village due to abandonment. An earthquake struck it after it was abandoned. Luckily, there’s still enough standing to make it a worthwhile excursion.

For repair, both Greek churches are presently closed. Fortunately, it’s simple to take a look anyhow because to a hole in the wall enclosing the upper church area.

Situated close to Antalya city, but the nature still dominates the site

The Woodwork Inside The Old House Is Extraordinary

During The Season, Souvenir Stalls Pop Up Everywhere

As previously said, Kayaköy is becoming a more well-liked destination. As a result of its growing appeal, certain tourist traps and sporadic encounters with groups of people taking guided tours have emerged. Aside from that, the family-run companies in the valley have a decent chance of surviving because to their growing notoriety.
You’ll find that throughout the winter, most places are closed. However, some are still open in observance of the Turkish custom of offering food and tea to guests whenever they show up. For the greatest chance to see Kayaköy’s ghost village, we suggest going during the off-season.

The Lebessos Wine House & Restaurant features a sizable wine cellar if you do grow hungry or would like to sample some wine made nearby. They’ll also be happy to let you try some wine. Enjoying a gözleme at one of the numerous kiosks is the ideal way to experience the cuisine of the area.
Additionally, keep an eye out for the little store selling handcrafted leather sandals located in one of the historic village homes. They are worth looking at even if you don’t wear them, if just to admire the craftmanship

Beautiful Handmade Leather Sandals And Shoes

ROCK TOMBS AND SARCOPHAGI NEAR KAYAKÖY

On the other side of the valley, just below the Fethiye-Kayaköy road, you will find some well-preserved rock tombs and sarcophagi. They are often overlooked by visitors as they lie opposite the ghost village, but if you find the time, they are well worth visiting!

Two Sarcophagi Below The Rock Cut Tombs In Kayaköy