In the early 1970s, Varosha was a modern tourist area offering its luxury beaches to billionaires and celebrities. At that time, Cyprus was a famous tourist destination for Brigitte Bardot and Elizabeth Taylor, who took sun baths right on the Varosha beach. Everything changed in August 1974 when Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied its northern part. 15,000 residents of Varosha fled in fear of a massacre, leaving behind their houses and other possessions. Most of them planned to come back soon, but the political situation remained tense, making it impossible to return to their homes.