Frozen heritage in frozen conflicts: Famagusta, Cyprus, waiting for the thaw.

Cities, as expressions of human social action, often face conflicts leading to physical divisions, Berlin and Jerusalem being remarkable cases. Cyprus, divided for nearly 50 years, illustrates the challenges of frozen conflicts, with Famagusta embodying the impact of the 1974 Turkish military intervention. The Varosha district, marked by frozen urban fabric and assets, faces decay and abandonment due to political disputes, hindering conservation efforts. Collaborations between Greek and Turkish Cypriots in Nicosia offer hope, but Famagusta lags behind, with tensions rising over the unilateral reopening of parts of the abandoned city. The emergence of "dark tourism" adds complexity, as the commercialization of abandonment may impede rehabilitation. Preserving Varosha's frozen heritage necessitates rapprochement, bicommunal agreements, and discussions to address challenges like property ownership and economic compensation. The uncertain future underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to safeguard cultural heritage and navigate the complexities of divided cities.