Kayaköy Travel Guide

Right next to Fethiye, there is a corner where time stands still: Kayaköy. This village, which continues to fascinate its visitors with its abandoned stone houses, historical churches, and impressive nature, is an ideal destination for those who want to take a historical journey and have a peaceful getaway. In our Kayaköy travel guide, you will discover the mysterious atmosphere of this historical village. Historical sites in Kayaköy; You will find many details from abandoned stone houses to churches, from rock tombs to natural beauties.

What is Kayaköy?

Kayaköy, originally known as Karain, is a historic settlement home to various cultures over the centuries. In the 19th century, it was predominantly inhabited by Greeks. However, following the population exchange, the village was abandoned, leaving behind its current state of picturesque ruins.

Where is Kayaköy Located?

Kayakoy is located in one of Turkey's unique holiday regions. It is approximately 15 kilometers from Ölüdeniz, Fethiye district of Muğla province. Those who want to stay in this region, where to stay in Kayaköy? Let's answer the question. Since Kayaköy is a region known for its calm atmosphere, accommodation options are usually offered in boutique hotels, stone houses, or bungalows intertwined with nature. Accommodation places that are compatible with the historical texture of Kayaköy offer a unique experience to its guests.

How to Get to Kayaköy

How to visit Kayakoy with its historical and natural beauty? To visit Kayakoy, you can fly to Dalaman Airport or Fethiye in your private car. Many historical buildings such as stone houses, churches, and rock tombs await you in Kayaköy, which you can easily reach by minibusses or taxis departing from Fethiye. You can also reach Kayaköy by boat tour departing from Fethiye. Visiting in spring or autumn will be ideal to avoid crowds and have a more enjoyable experience.

Is There an Entrance Fee to Visit Kayaköy?

There is a small entrance fee required to visit Kayaköy. The proceeds contribute to the preservation and development of this remarkable archaeological site.

The History of Kayaköy

Kayaköy's history dates back to the 4th century BC. Kayaköy is one of the most mysterious corners of Fethiye with thousands of years of history. The village, known as Karymlassos in ancient times, was home to Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations respectively. During the Ottoman period, it was a cosmopolitan settlement where Greeks lived. In 1923, as a result of the population exchange, the village was abandoned when the Greeks migrated to Greece, and today it attracts attention with its historical stone houses, churches, and rock tombs. The environmental conditions and the fact that the structure of the houses was not suitable for the lifestyle of the newly arrived Turks caused the village to be completely abandoned. Today, Kayaköy has become the center of attention of local and foreign tourists with its historical and natural beauties.

Kayaköy’s Multicultural Legacy

Kayaköy is a settlement with a unique cultural richness, bearing the traces of different civilizations with its thousands of years of history. The village, shaped under the influence of different civilizations such as Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, had a cosmopolitan structure where Greek and Turkish populations lived together, especially during the Ottoman period. Although the migration of the Greeks in the village to Greece with the population exchange in 1923 caused the deterioration of this rich cultural structure, the historical buildings and cultural heritage in the village continue to carry the traces of this past to the present day.

The Impact of the Population Exchange

In 1923, the population exchange led to the forced migration of the Greek inhabitants of the village to Greece, while the Muslim population was relocated to the interior regions of Turkey. This significant event drastically altered the village's history, leaving it deserted.

The Architectural and Historical Significance

The stone houses in Kayaköy are original examples of the architecture of that period. Narrow streets, stone walls, and wooden roofs offer visitors the opportunity to travel back in time. Churches are also an essential part of the religious history of the village. Structures such as Panayia Pyrgiotissa and Taksiyarhis churches carry the characteristics of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture together. With its rock tombs, it carries the traces of Lycian civilization to the present day. These tombs are of great importance both architecturally and historically.

Top Attractions in Kayaköy

If we want to give information about things to do in Kayaköy, we have compiled the places to visit in this multicultural and rich historical heritage region.

Abandoned Stone Houses

Kayaköy attractions, of course, will be the abandoned stone houses that come first. Kayaköy was a settlement where Greeks lived intensively in the past. However, as a result of the population exchange in 1923, the village was emptied and came to the present day as it is today. Abandoned houses are substantial evidence that those days were lived. Stone houses bearing the traces of centuries tell a story on the streets of the village. These houses, each belonging to a different period, also reveal the life of those days.

Historic Churches: Panayia Pyrgiotissa and Taksiyarhis

Kayaköy attracts attention not only with its abandoned stone houses but also with a rich historical heritage that has been home to different religions and cultures in the past. One of the most significant parts of this heritage is the two historical churches in the village, Panayia Pyrgiotissa, and Taksiyarhis. Panayia Pyrgiotissa Church is one of the largest and most magnificent churches in the village. Built in the 19th century, the church bears the influences of Byzantine architecture. The frescoes and icons on the interior walls of the church reveal the artistic richness of that period.

Rock Tombs and Ancient Pathways

The region where Kayaköy is located has been home to many civilizations throughout history. Rock tombs belonging to the Lycian civilization, one of the most influential, are frequently seen around the village. These tombs are essential indicators of the architectural understanding and belief system of that period.

Hiking in Kayaköy

Hiking in Kayaköy is a unique opportunity to journey back in time while immersing yourself in nature. The area's historical sites and well-preserved ruins make every step a connection to the past. For nature enthusiasts, the hiking trails around Kayaköy are an excellent choice, blending history with the region's stunning natural landscapes. Along these ancient paths, you’ll encounter rock tombs and remnants of ancient settlements, offering a deeper appreciation of the area's rich heritage. For a more enriching experience, Kayaköy travel tips suggest exploring these trails to uncover the perfect harmony of history and natural beauty.

Sunset Views Over Kayaköy

Apart from its historical and cultural richness, Kayaköy also fascinates its visitors with its unique natural beauty. Especially at sunset, the view from the hills of the village offers an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Experiences in Kayaköy: Kayaköy Art Camp

Kayaköy has turned into a vibrant art and culture center. Kayaköy Art Camp is one of the most important indicators of this transformation. Bringing together local and foreign artists working in different branches of art among abandoned stone houses, this camp offers a unique experience for art lovers and those who want to discover their creativity.

In Kayaköy Art Camp, participants have a full experience with a series of activities that both contribute to their personal development and increase social interaction. Participants have the opportunity to explore new techniques and unleash their creativity in various fields, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, music, and dance, through workshops led by artists specializing in different disciplines. In addition to the immersive day-long workshops, an artistic atmosphere is further enhanced by evening concerts and performances, offering a vibrant cultural experience.