Kayakoy

Nestled in the southwestern region of Turkey lies Kayaköy, a village that whispers tales of its vibrant past. Once a bustling community, it now stands as a haunting yet captivating ghost town. As we delve into its history, we uncover stories of harmony, decline, and resilience. From its ancient origins to its modern-day recognition, Kayaköy remains a testament to the ever-evolving tapestry of human civilization.

The Enigmatic History of Kayaköy

Ancient Origins and Name Evolution

Kayaköy's roots trace back to ancient times, known in its earliest days as Carmylessus. This name, deeply rooted in Ancient Greek, underwent several transformations. It evolved to Lebessos and later to Levissi, reflecting the shifts in linguistic and cultural influences over the centuries. As the Greeks settled and the area underwent Byzantine and Ottoman influences, the name Levissi became synonymous with the village until the Turks took over, marking yet another chapter in its rich history.

The Christian Inhabitants and Ottoman Harmony

The village's inhabitants embraced Christianity in late antiquity. Following the significant East-West Schism in 1054 AD, they became known as Greek Orthodox Christians. This religious transformation did not disrupt the harmony of the region. In fact, these Greek-speaking Christian subjects coexisted peacefully with their Turkish-speaking Muslim Ottoman rulers. This peaceful coexistence spanned from the end of the tumultuous Ottoman conquest in the 14th century until the early 20th century, painting a picture of unity amidst diversity.

During this period, the village witnessed significant migrations. Notably, the residents of Gemiler Island, located near Fethiye, sought refuge in Kayaköy in the 18th century AD to escape pirate attacks. Historians believe these settlers played a pivotal role in shaping the present-day village.

For those interested in exploring more about the region's maritime adventures, the fethiye to olympos gulet cruise offers a unique journey through the azure waters.

The Decline and Desertion of a Thriving Village

The Impact of World Wars and Treaties

• Early 20th Century: By the 1900s, Kayaköy's population had swelled to around 6,500, with some sources even suggesting numbers as high as 10,000.
• World War I: The village faced significant challenges during this period. Many Greeks in the region faced persecution, leading to a mass exodus to Greece.
• 1923 Lausanne Peace Treaty: This treaty marked a turning point for Kayaköy. It mandated a population exchange, forcing the remaining Greeks in Kayaköy to emigrate to Greece and Muslims in Greece to relocate to Turkey.
• Aftermath: The displaced Greeks established a community near Athens called 'Nea Makri' or 'New Fethiye'. Meanwhile, rumors of Kayaköy being haunted deterred many Muslims arriving from Greece from settling there.

The Ghost Town Today: A Museum Village

• Preservation: Today, Kayaköy stands preserved as a museum village, showcasing hundreds of Greek-style houses and churches.
• Tourist Attraction: The village serves as a pitstop for tourists visiting Fethiye and the mesmerizing blue voyage fethiye.
• Current State: While many houses remain in ruins, a few have been restored. The village, though largely deserted, occasionally buzzes with tour groups, roadside vendors, and visitors keen on unraveling its mysteries.

Architectural Marvels Amidst Ruins

The Upper and Lower Churches

Kayaköy is home to two significant churches:

• Taksiyarhis Church (Upper Church): Located at the village's highest point, this church boasts a courtyard adorned with geometric-patterned mosaics. Its architecture features rectangular windows on the lower floor and semi-circular ones on the upper floor. Though its orange-tiled roof and octagonal dome have mostly vanished, its remnants hint at its past grandeur.
• Panayia Pirgiotissa (Lower Church): Situated on the village's western border, this church mirrors the architectural style of the Upper Church. Its interiors once shimmered with colorful illustrations, but time has taken its toll, leaving behind mere traces.

The Stone Houses and Streets of Kayaköy

• Houses: The village's stone houses, though roofless and weathered, stand as silent witnesses to the past. Their fireplaces, spiral-planned toilets, and courtyards paved with colored stones remain largely intact.
• Streets: Narrow stone pathways meander through the village, connecting the houses and offering glimpses of Kayaköy's daily life from bygone eras.

Kayaköy in Modern Times

UNESCO's Recognition and Tourism

Kayaköy, with its rich history and unique architecture, has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. UNESCO has honored the village by naming it a world friendship and peace village. This recognition has further elevated its status as a significant tourist attraction. Visitors from around the world are drawn to its haunting beauty and the stories its walls whisper.