Famagusta

If you've ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time, Famagusta, Cyprus is the city that will take you back to 1974. Our guide explained that she “was six years old when the Turks invaded her Northern home town of Keryneia through the Port”. She further explained, “her whole family had to leave their home, at short notice, and fled to the south with only a few items of clothing.” Turkish families then moved into the vacant houses with the backing of the Turkish Government. Sometimes, Greek Cypriot families return to their original home towns to view their long lost homes. Their argument is not so much with the Turkish Cypriots who also fled their homes in the south, but with the mainland Turks who just filled up the areas of the North. Consequently, when properties are bought and sold, legitimate title is often not available.

And that's what happened in parts of Famagusta but not all of the city. So now, when you visit, the area is controlled by the Turkish military. In some areas visitors are allowed; vast areas with buildings still showing the bullet strafed markings of war. The prohibited areas, often called the “ghost City”, include abandoned hotels, houses and businesses. Since 1974 they have been frozen in time complete with new 1974 cars in showrooms.

The 14th century Cathedral of St. Nikolaos, which once stood proudly as a church, is now a mosque complete with a minaret. After 1974, the Turks developed the remainder of the city. It is this part that is accessible to visitors.

On a lighter note, leaving Famagusta, we headed for Ayia Napa on the coast where we had lunch at Christos Fish Tavern. What did I eat? Fish soup, of course.

During the winter months, it's pretty much deserted, but in the summer - watch out. Hordes of young tourists jam the streets of the resort.