blooming village

Pattern Scale: Neighborhood

Description of the Pattern: Karmi, also known as Karaman, is a village on the mountain slope west of Kyrenia that was abandoned by its Greek-Cypriot inhabitants. The old houses became derelict and the area turned into almost a ghost town. It was agreed in 1979 to implement an innovative concept to revitalize this little scenic community while developing local tourism. The importance of preserving the village's character while catering to the needs of modern accommodations was emphasized, with traditional constructions all kept alive - wooden rafters and rush mats used for ceilings, limitations set for roof placements so as not to ruin the village atmosphere, and even each house with its own name written at the front door. All the restorations are made by using only local architects and builders. It was important to keep the character of the village and to use traditional construction methods. With around 150 renovated houses, Karmi is a beautiful village, full of flowers and with views to the coast and inland to St Hilarion castle. Throughout the year, travelers from all over come to walk through the scenic winding roads and rest in one of the few taverns and bistros while admiring the seasonal floras and fresh atmosphere around.

More Information: Karaman, North Cyprus

Who Submitted this Pattern: Fulya Özbey, Mehmet Bozkurt and Elif Coşkun