The recent passing of French cinematic icon Brigitte Bardot, at the venerable age of 91, has inevitably cast a retrospective light on various facets of her celebrated life. Beyond her indelible impact on film and her later, fervent dedication to animal welfare, Bardot also harboured a distinct connection to Cyprus, specifically to the now-defunct resort town of Varosha. Her sojourns to this once-vibrant locale during the early 1970s serve as a poignant reminder of a bygone era. This period saw Varosha colloquially lauded as "the St. Tropez of Cyprus," attracting a constellation of international stars.
In the years preceding its unfortunate displacement, Varosha, a district south of Famagusta, was a byword for opulence and cosmopolitan allure. It was a magnet for the "elite of the arts," drawing figures like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who, much like Bardot, were known to frequent the prestigious Argo Hotel. This establishment became a nexus for the era's crème de la crème, a place where cinema and high society intertwined. Bardot's presence there, during the twilight of her acting career before her retirement in 1973, cemented the resort's reputation.
The allure of Varosha extended beyond its luxurious accommodation and celebrity patronage. Its economic vitality as a hub for international trade and tourism contributed to its unique atmosphere. Even before Bardot's visit, the region had a rich cultural tapestry. Famagusta had hosted Swedish pop group ABBA for an informal performance and served as a filming location for Paul Newman's iconic 1960 movie "Exodus." Furthermore, Greek literary giants had all, in their own ways, engaged with the island's cultural landscape, underscoring its significance.
Bardot's decision to retreat from her acting career and subsequently marry Bernard d'Ormale in 1992 marked a significant shift in her public persona. Her energies were then redirected towards championing animal rights through the Brigitte Bardot Foundation. This later phase of her life, characterised by its unwavering commitment, has been widely acknowledged. French President Emmanuel Macron, in his heartfelt tribute, described her as "a legend of the century," embodying "a life of freedom."
The Brigitte Bardot Foundation itself articulated her enduring legacy, stating she was "a world-renowned actress and singer, who chose to abandon her prestigious career to dedicate her life and energy to animal welfare." While her contributions to cinema and philanthropy are paramount, her association with Varosha adds a poignant layer to her biography. Her visits contributed to an image of Varosha as a locus of glamour and cultural exchange. The memory of Bardot gracing the shores of Varosha resonates as a significant marker in the evocative narrative of a Cypriot town.