33 Ghost Towns That Have Become Stunning Tourist Attractions

8. Kayaköy, Turkey: A Village of Peace and Abandonment

Kayaköy, Turkey, is a ghost village located near the Mediterranean coast, known for its stone houses and peaceful setting. Once a thriving Greek Orthodox community, Kayaköy was abandoned in the 1920s during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey. Today, the village is a protected historical site, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty and poignant history. The empty houses, churches, and schools offer a glimpse into the lives of its former residents, while the surrounding hills provide stunning views of the countryside. Kayaköy's transformation into a tourist destination has helped preserve its structures and promote cultural understanding, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the impact of political upheaval and forced migration.