Ayialousa Under Occupation: Memory and Grief for the Occupied Town

On August 17, 1974, Ayialousa, a town on the Achaean Coast, was occupied by the Turkish army. This occupation marked a period of great destruction and displacement for its residents.

The Turkish army's entry into Ayialousa was unopposed. Vandalism followed, including the shooting of the bust of EOKA hero Stavros Stylianidis.

After the occupation, a period of entrapment, displacement, and diaspora began. On August 19, 1974, nine Ayialousians were abducted and later found murdered in a mass grave in Galatia. Other abductions and murders followed.

Despite the difficulties, the Ayialousians have maintained the memory of their town. This memory is a shield for those who lived in Ayialousa and a sword for the youth who struggle to keep its history alive.

Today, few Greeks live in Agia Triada, Rizokarpaso and Ayialousa. Ayialousa remains occupied, but the voice of Karpasia continues to be heard.