Varosha, a district of Famagusta in Northern Cyprus, is a place where history, glamour, and eerie abandonment intersect. Once a glittering resort town, it is now known as the “Ghost Town,” a silent reminder of the island’s turbulent past. This article explores the fascinating history, the luxurious lifestyle that once defined Varosha, and its current state.
Before its abandonment, Varosha was a jewel on the Mediterranean coast, renowned for its luxury and exclusivity. During the 1960s and early 1970s, it was one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, often compared to the likes of Saint-Tropez and Cannes. The town was the playground of the rich and famous, attracting a star-studded list of visitors, including Hollywood celebrities, politicians, and business magnates.
Varosha’s allure was in its beautiful beaches and high-end lifestyle. Celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Brigitte Bardot frequented the town, drawn by its opulent hotels, fine dining restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The bustling streets were lined with luxury boutiques, offering the latest in fashion from Paris, Milan, and London. Exclusive parties and grand galas were common, making it the ultimate destination for the elite.
The architecture of Varosha reflected its glamorous status. The town boasted modernist buildings, including high-rise hotels and sleek apartment complexes. The Argo Hotel, a 10-story marvel, featured state-of-the-art facilities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Each hotel and resort was designed to offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort, with private beaches, gourmet restaurants, and lavish spas.
Varosha was also a cultural and entertainment hub. The town’s theatres, cinemas, and concert halls hosted world-class performances, from ballet and opera to rock concerts and jazz festivals. The nightlife was vibrant, with nightclubs and casinos offering endless entertainment options. Visitors could enjoy glamorous venues like the Venus Club or try their luck at one of the town’s opulent casinos.
Every aspect of life in Varosha was luxurious. The pristine beaches had private cabanas and exclusive beach clubs offering impeccable service and breathtaking views. Fine dining restaurants served exquisite cuisine, and the town’s spas and wellness centers provided relaxation and rejuvenation. Varosha’s affluence and cosmopolitan charm made it a top destination for luxury and leisure.
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 marked the end of Varosha’s golden era. The Greek Cypriot inhabitants fled the area, leaving behind their homes, businesses, and a thriving community. Since then, Varosha has remained under Turkish control, fenced off and accessible only to Turkish military personnel and United Nations personnel.
Today, Varosha is a surreal landscape of abandoned buildings, empty hotels, and overgrown streets. The once-bustling resort town is now a silent, eerie place where nature is slowly reclaiming the land. Visitors can walk or bike along marked paths, but access to the interiors of buildings is restricted for safety reasons. The town is like an open-air museum, offering a glimpse into a bygone era and serving as a poignant reminder of the island’s divided history.
The fate of Varosha remains a contentious issue. In 1984, a United Nations resolution called for the handover of the town to UN control, stating that only the original inhabitants could resettle there. However, this resolution has not been implemented, and the town remains under Turkish control. Recent discussions about reopening Varosha to its original inhabitants face political and logistical challenges.
In 2020, the Turkish government opened part of Varosha to civilians, allowing visitors to explore the town under strict supervision. Visitors can rent bicycles or join guided tours to see the abandoned buildings and the beautiful beach that once attracted tourists. However, it’s important to follow the rules and stay within designated areas, as the town is still a restricted military zone.
Varosha is a place of contrasts, where the past meets the present, and beauty meets abandonment. Its abandoned buildings and empty streets offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle that once defined the town. While it remains closed off and inaccessible, the legend of Varosha continues to capture the imagination, symbolizing both the allure of its past and the hope for its future revival.
