There is a place in Cyprus that seems to have emerged from a yellowed photograph, frozen in time in 1974. It is called Varosha , a city that was once the beating heart of luxury and international jet-set. Today, it is a ghost town that tells a story of wealth, war and visionary design.

two views of Varosha, low building with toyota daytime light lettering.

A Pearl Lost in the Mediterranean

In the 1960s and 1970s, Varosha was one of the most exclusive destinations in the Mediterranean. Icons such as Elizabeth Taylor , Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot would meet here , drawn by golden beaches and avant-garde hotels. The windows of modernist buildings reveal furnishings that, although dusty with time, speak of an era in which design was synonymous with innovation and style.

Walking through the deserted streets today is like entering an open-air museum. The buildings, although marked by time, retain architectural details that tell the story of a city at the height of its glory. Clean lines, bold geometries, sophisticated interiors. Varosha was a living manifesto of 70s design.

view of varosha, image of the beach and palace.

The Story Behind the Silence

In 1974, the Turkish invasion of Cyprus turned Varosha into a closed military zone. Residents fled, leaving everything behind. For decades, the town lay abandoned, frozen in the moment when life stopped. Recently, Varosha has been partially reopened to visitors, offering a unique glimpse into what was and what could have been.

view of Varosha city, two low buildings, daylight.

Walking through Varosha today is a surreal experience. The contrast between the decaying beauty of the buildings and the nature that reclaims the spaces is poignant and fascinating. This place has deeply inspired us, making us reflect on the evocative power of design and its ability to tell stories even in silence.

Recapture the Spirit of the 70s

If, like us, you are fascinated by timeless design that tells stories of times gone by, be inspired by our collection of 70s vintage items on vicode.it . Bring home a piece of history and relive the glories of an era that defined modern style.

view of Varosha, abandoned buildings daylight.