In the early 1970’s the Varosha resort in Famagusta, Cyprus was one of the hottest vacation spots in the world. The Mediteranean beach destination counted among its many tourists Hollywood stars such as Elizabeth Taylor and Raquel Welch.
The locations fortunes took a turn for the worse on July 20, 1974 when, in response to a Greek backed coup attempt, the Turkish military invaded Northern Cyprus. Fearing for their safety, the 35,000 inhabitants fled the area. The resort town was fenced off and entry prohibited by the military. 40 years later, this remains the status quo. After the 4 decades of neglect, the city is crumbling and will need to be razed if it is to be settled again.
For a more accessible ghost town, check out this abandoned mining town turned art installation in Nevada