An online controversy surrounding Trozena village in Cyprus has been dismissed as false by local authorities, after social media posts claimed the abandoned village had been fully purchased by Israeli interests and closed to visitors.
The community leader of Arsos Vassas–Trozena, Yiannakis Yiannaki, rejected the claims in comments to Radio Proto, describing them as “fake news”.
Yiannaki clarified that no restrictions have been imposed on access to the area and that there are no security guards preventing entry.
He said that if any incidents occurred, they were likely linked to construction activity and may have resulted from misunderstandings rather than official prohibitions.
The situation, he stressed, has been misrepresented online.
Partial private investment in abandoned village
According to the community leader, an Israeli-linked company has purchased part of the village’s properties. However, he clarified that this concerns approximately 70%–80% of existing buildings, not the entire area or land.
He also dismissed claims that the village church would be demolished, stating that maintenance works have been carried out instead and that services have recently taken place.
Long-abandoned village expected to benefit
Trozena has been fully abandoned since the early 1980s, largely due to lack of infrastructure such as electricity and road access.
The community leader said the new investment could support the region’s revival, potentially creating jobs and boosting local tourism.
He described the development as an opportunity for the wider area, which has remained inactive for decades.
Call for evidence over allegations
Yiannaki urged those spreading allegations about Trozena village to present evidence, suggesting the claims may be driven by misinformation or ulterior motives.
Authorities have not announced any formal investigation into the matter.
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