**VATHYLAKAS, KARPAS –** A pressing call has been issued for the immediate restoration of a historic religious edifice in the village of Vathylakas, situated within the picturesque Karpas region. Firat Borak, the chairman of the Rizokarpaso environmental protection association, voiced grave concerns on Monday regarding the structure's deteriorating condition, highlighting its potential to become a significant safety hazard, particularly for the village's younger inhabitants.
The building in question, centrally located within Vathylakas, carries a multifaceted historical legacy, having served not only as a place of worship but also as a community hub. Borak described the current state of disrepair as alarming, with the edifice reportedly "beginning to crumble," posing an imminent danger. He underscored the inherent risks associated with such neglected structures, stating, "Such places, especially in villages, can have dangerous consequences." The urgency of the situation is amplified by the fact that the original Greek Cypriot population of Vathylakas remained in the village until November 1976, a demographic transition that has been followed by resettlement by Turkish nationals from specific southern provinces, namely Adana, Gaziantep, Mersin, and Osmaniye.
The historical trajectory of Vathylakas provides a poignant backdrop to the current appeal. Once a predominantly Greek Cypriot settlement, the village underwent a significant demographic shift following 1976. This transition has, according to observers, contributed to the neglect of its historical assets, including the aforementioned church. The current state of the building, once a mosque and subsequently repurposed as a cultural centre, is a stark reminder of the passage of time and the imperative of heritage preservation.
Borak’s appeal is rooted in a broader vision for the economic revitalisation of the southern Karpasia region. He posits that the restoration of the Vathylakas church, alongside similar historic structures scattered throughout the area, could serve as a powerful catalyst for attracting heritage tourism. Such initiatives, he argues, are intrinsically linked to fostering sustainable economic development for the local communities. By preserving and showcasing their rich historical tapestry, these villages can unlock new avenues for income generation and employment, thereby breathing new life into areas that may have experienced economic stagnation.
The implications of inaction are considerable. Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the continued deterioration of the church and other heritage sites risks diminishing the region's appeal to visitors. A failure to invest in the preservation of these tangible links to the past could ultimately hamper efforts to bolster tourism, a sector seen as crucial for the long-term prosperity of Karpas. The call from Borak and his association is therefore not merely about saving an old building; it is a plea to safeguard a vital piece of the region's identity and to unlock its potential for a more vibrant and prosperous future, ensuring that the echoes of its past can contribute to the well-being of its present and future inhabitants.