Exploring Earth's Priciest Abandoned Structures
2. Cyprus's Nicosia International Airport
Location: Cyprus, west of Nicosia
Construction Era: 1930s
Estimated Reconstruction Cost: $37 million
The government of Cyprus has proposed a significant rehabilitation project for Nicosia International Airport, which was once the island's primary airport before its unexpected closure in 1974 due to the Turkish invasion. Originally constructed in the 1930s, Nicosia Airport played a vital role in connecting Cyprus to the world.
The estimated cost for the airport's reconstruction is $37 million, a substantial investment aimed at restoring the facility to its former level of excellence. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to revitalizing transportation infrastructure and enhancing connectivity on the island.
Cyprus's Nicosia International Airport
Nicosia International Airport, once a bustling commercial hub, is now a site of historical significance and military presence. In addition to its former role as a key airport, the area currently hosts United Nations and Royal Air Force camps. Due to its designation as a "Protected Area" by the United Nations, public access to the abandoned airport and the associated military camps is strictly prohibited.
As a result, visitors cannot explore the remnants of the airport, which stands as a poignant reminder of Cyprus's complex history and the impact of the 1974 invasion. The airport's dilapidated structures and surrounding facilities evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when it served as a vital link for travelers to and from the island.
