Burj Al Babas: The Eerie Abandoned Castle Town in Turkey
If Disney World is the happiest place on Earth, then Burj Al Babas might be the eeriest. Sitting near the Black Sea, this town is full of half-finished, fully abandoned mini-castles, 587 to be exact. However, Burj Al Babas was originally planned as a luxurious urban development designed to offer the look of royal living for anyone willing to invest significantly to own a little palace.
iBestTravel, the project developer, probably had the right idea when they conceptualized a community of castles for their ambitious project. After all, even though the influence of European monarchies has diminished in politics over the years, their iconic châteaux, castles, and palaces continue to captivate. The undeniable extravagance and opulence of these structures make them timeless.
The Vision Behind Burj Al Babas
Rich foreigners, uninterested in destinations like the south of France or the northeastern tip of Spain, could have enjoyed the Mediterranean climate on Gothic-style rooftop terraces, taking in views of the lush Turkish forest. Moreover, the location in Mudurnu, a town known for its hot springs and healing waters, added to the allure, featuring villas equipped with underfloor heating and Jacuzzis. Even in its current abandoned state, the vision for Burj Al Babas is still evident: a blend of European luxury and Turkish charm.
Why was the Disney Castle Village Abandoned?
Construction began in 2014 and was expected to be completed in four years. However, during this time, developers faced significant challenges, ultimately leading them to declare bankruptcy. As construction unfolded, local residents expressed outrage regarding the aesthetic of the homes and the developers’ business practices. Reports highlighted that many locals were frustrated that the castles did not align with the historical Ottoman-style architecture typical of the area. Consequently, a lawsuit was filed against the developers for environmental damage, including the destruction of trees.
The economic struggles in Turkey further compounded the issues, leading to a staggering £24 million debt for the developers. Thus, with a mix of poor choices and unfortunate timing, construction came to a halt.
Will Burj Al Babas Ever be Finished?
Even as investors began to withdraw their support from the £200 million project in 2019, iBestTravel maintained an optimistic outlook, believing that the project would eventually be completed. However, the global pandemic altered circumstances drastically, leaving the project abandoned. While it’s not impossible that the construction could resume in the future, indications suggest that this is currently unlikely.
Can You Live in Burj Al Babas?
At present, the once-promising valley adorned with manors has transformed into a landscape of empty, half-finished structures. With many villas started but none completed, the town remains uninhabitable. From a distance, the grey-roofed neighborhood evokes imagery from a Disney classic—perhaps reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast. However, a closer inspection reveals an unsettling post-apocalyptic atmosphere, marked by partially completed castles, disheveled landscaping, and an absolute absence of life. The desolate village is haunting, resembling a once-sparkling city now left in ruins.
