Famagusta, Cyprus

Capital City

With a population of just 40,920, the once-thriving port city of Famagusta is a shadow of its former self. The Turkish invasion in 1974 devastated the local economy, and bureaucracy remains a persistent headache for residents. While the city's historic churches and medieval architecture still draw tourists, the walled inner city has languished, with many buildings left in disrepair. Famagusta's location on the eastern coast subjects it to a harsh, dry climate typical of Cyprus. For those willing to navigate the city's challenges, Famagusta may offer an affordable cost of living, but it is hardly the vibrant commercial hub it once was.