The forbidden zone in Cyprus is Varosha, an abandoned ghost town on the eastern coast of the island.
The Ghost Town of Varosha
Varosha, once a bustling tourist resort and a popular destination in Famagusta, has remained largely uninhabited and cordoned off since the 1970s. It stands as a stark reminder of the division of Cyprus, often referred to as a "ghost town" due to its eerie stillness and decaying buildings.
Historical Context
Before 1974, Varosha was a vibrant, modern quarter of Famagusta, attracting celebrities and tourists to its pristine beaches and high-rise hotels. However, following the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, the area was captured by Turkish forces and subsequently fenced off. Its Greek Cypriot inhabitants were forced to flee, leaving behind their homes, businesses, and belongings.
The UN Resolution and its Impact
For years, Varosha remained under the control of the Turkish military. This changed with a significant United Nations resolution in 1984. This resolution placed Varosha under the direct control of the United Nations. Crucially, the decision also forbade anyone from resettling there other than those who were forced out in the 1970s. This specific restriction is what defines Varosha as the "forbidden zone" for most people.
The UN's intent behind this measure was to prevent any demographic changes that would prejudice a future political settlement and to safeguard the property rights of its original inhabitants.
Current Status and Restrictions
Today, Varosha remains under UN supervision, with access strictly controlled. The area is enclosed by fencing and monitored by the Turkish military, preventing entry to unauthorized individuals. While there have been ongoing political discussions regarding its future, the core restriction imposed by the UN resolution persists.
The key aspects of the forbidden zone of Varosha include:
- Location: Part of Famagusta on the eastern coast of Cyprus.
- Status: Abandoned ghost town since 1974.
- Control: Under United Nations administration following a 1984 resolution.
- Primary Restriction: Only original residents who were displaced in the 1970s are permitted to return and resettle. All others are forbidden from entering or residing in the area.
This unique status highlights the complex and unresolved political situation in Cyprus, with Varosha serving as a tangible symbol of the island's division and the enduring challenges of reconciliation.
For more information, you can explore detailed reports on the history and current state of Varosha, such as this one covering its abandonment and controversial status: Inside a Forbidden and Controversial Abandoned Cyprus Ghost Town.
