Kayaköy: Silent Witnesses of Abandoned History
Right next to Fethiye, hidden within nature, lies a place rich in history: Kayaköy. Once a lively Greek town, today it carries the traces of the past with its abandoned stone houses wrapped in silence.
Kayaköy, with its deserted homes, narrow stone streets, and striking atmosphere, gives visitors the feeling of traveling through time. If you're looking for a route that blends history and nature, this is the perfect destination for you.
History of Kayaköy
Former Name: Levissi
During the Ottoman period, Kayaköy was known as Levissi. It was predominantly inhabited by Greeks, who lived their daily lives in stone-built houses showcasing fine craftsmanship.
1923 Population Exchange and Abandonment
- In 1923, due to the population exchange agreement between Turkey and Greece, the Greek residents of Kayaköy were sent to Greece.
- The Turks who replaced them struggled to adapt to the climate and agricultural conditions, leading to the complete abandonment of Kayaköy.
- Today, around 3,500 stone houses, along with old churches and schools, stand in silent solitude.
Places to Visit in Kayaköy
Abandoned Greek Houses
The most striking feature of Kayaköy is the hundreds of stone houses lined up on the slopes. With no windows or doors, these homes reflect the sorrow of abandonment.
Panagia Pyrgiotissa and Taxiarchis Churches
The two largest churches in Kayaköy are remarkable for their stone craftsmanship and frescoes. Panagia Pyrgiotissa Church, the larger of the two, is located in the main square.
School and Chapels
While exploring the village, you can also come across the remains of old Greek schools and small chapels.
Art and Cultural Workshops
Today, some artists have set up workshops in Kayaköy, working in fields such as painting, ceramics, and handicrafts.
Nature Hike from Kayaköy to Ölüdeniz
A hiking trail starting from Kayaköy passes through forests and leads to Ölüdeniz. This 6 km route offers a wonderful experience for nature and scenery lovers.
How to Get to Kayaköy?
Location: 8 km from Fethiye.
By Car:
- You can reach Kayaköy in 15 minutes from Fethiye city center.
- It takes about an hour to get here from Dalaman Airport.
By Public Transport:
- Minibuses from Fethiye provide easy access to Kayaköy.
Car Rental:
- Renting a car is a great option for exploring Kayaköy comfortably and discovering nearby bays.
Things to Do in Kayaköy
Photography: Capture stunning shots while wandering through the ruins.
Camping and Hiking: There are excellent hiking routes around Kayaköy.
Art and Workshops: Join art workshops in the village.
Paragliding: Due to its proximity to Ölüdeniz, you can participate in paragliding activities.
Kayaköy: A Silent Village Where History and Nature Intertwine
Even in its silence, Kayaköy tells the story of the past. The abandoned stone houses, churches, and narrow streets are just a few of the elements that make this place special. If you love walking through historical sites and discovering traces of ancient civilizations, Kayaköy is definitely a place you must visit.
Published: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 13:45
