Sazak village remains a silent witness to the 1923 population exchange

The historic village of Sazak, located in the Karaburun district of Izmir overlooking Chios, remains a silent witness to the 1923 population exchange between Turkey and Greece. Once a vibrant settlement of 120 households—comprising 100 Greek and 20 Turkish families—the village was abandoned following the agreement, leading to a century of isolation.

Today, only the ruins of stone houses remain. Over the decades, much of the cultural heritage left behind, including doors, windows, roof tiles, and garden fences, has been looted or destroyed by time. While the village is now part of the Parlak neighborhood, it continues to attract visitors due to its unique natural scenery and historical significance. Local official Kadriye Gültekin has expressed interest in opening the site to tourism to preserve its legacy.