In July 1974, Turkish troops occupied the north and east of the island of Cyprus. This territory gave rise to the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is separated from the Republic of Cyprus by a winding line of territory controlled by United Nations military forces.

At the eastern end of this line, in the area currently controlled by the United Nations, near the city of Famagusta, the Varosha tourist resort was built with an excellent beach, buildings, houses, shops and all the necessary infrastructure along the coast. Faced with the approach of Turkish troops in 1974, the inhabitants abandoned their homes within a few days in a hurry.

The resort of Varosha has remained empty and off-limits for decades. Recently, visitors have been allowed during the day, but no entry into the houses, which are surrounded by fences. They also allow access to the beach during the day.

The area is clean, with no rubbish on the streets, no graffiti on the walls and no animals to be seen. Trees and wild weeds grow freely. It is a case of pure natural decay without human intervention. There is a profound silence and, despite the good weather, the atmosphere is heavy.