You can’t make this stuff up.
I realize this is kind of old news but I recently saw another headline about this and once again, had a good chuckle. The absurdity of the Burj Al Babas knows no bounds on several levels.
First, while gated, manicured communities is popular all over the world, there’s something bizarre about this one in how similar every home/mansion is.
Second, what really gets me is the castle design concept. It’s so un-castle-like if you think about it. I love a cool looking castle as much as the next person but when you cram hundreds of identical castle structures, it’s absurd.
Third, look how close they’re crammed together. To me a castle is a fortress structure protecting a large swath of land. This is not that.
From Dream to Ghost Town
Once envisioned as a lavish retreat for the affluent, Burj Al Babas in Turkey was meant to be a picturesque estate dotted with 587 mini-castles, each a quaint replica of Disney’s fairy-tale aesthetics. The total development was to cost $200 million. Individual “castle” prices ranged from $370,000 to $500,000 for those dreaming of their personal slice of regal life. Instead, this potential paradise near the Black Sea transformed into a ghostly landscape of unfinished dreams.
The Visionaries Behind the Venture
Sarot Properties Group, a developer known for their luxurious thermal spring hotels in the area, spearheaded this ambitious project. They planned to lure wealthy Arabs with promises of European-style chateaus amidst the Mediterranean climate of Turkey’s lush forests. Each villa boasted modern luxuries like underfloor heating and Jacuzzis, nestled in the historic spa town of Mudurnu.
Why Did the Castle Project Crumble?
Launched in 2014 with a four-year timeline, the project stumbled into financial ruin as Sarot Properties faced bankruptcy amidst growing local discontent and economic downturns. The unique castle designs clashed with the traditional Ottoman architecture of the region, sparking local outrage and environmental concerns. These challenges, coupled with Turkey’s economic struggles, led to a staggering $27 million debt, halting construction indefinitely.
Is There a Future for Burj Al Babas?
Despite the setbacks and the impact of the global pandemic, the future of Burj Al Babas remains uncertain. While the developers remained hopeful, the silence from Sarot Group and the stalled construction suggest that the revival of this project is unlikely.
A Curious Destination for the Intrepid
Today, Burj Al Babas stands as an eerie tableau of incomplete grandeur. The site, officially closed to the public, occasionally sees the adventurous soul wander through its desolate streets. Travel vloggers and curious tourists find their way around the perimeters, though the risks of navigating a construction site should not be underestimated.
In essence, Burj Al Babas is a stark reminder of ambition’s reach exceeding its grasp, offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into what could have been a luxurious haven.
Watch this video to see a tour of Burj Al Babas including interior walkthrough.
