The provided maps illustrate the significant transformation of a small coastal fishing village into a large-scale European tourist resort between 1974 and 2004. Overall, the area underwent extensive urbanisation, shifting from a primary focus on fishing and agriculture to a major tourism-oriented economy, accompanied by a substantial increase in population and infrastructure.
In 1974, the area was sparsely populated, with only 12,000 residents. The landscape was dominated by natural features, including woodland, olive groves, and hills used for grazing sheep and goats. The settlement was small, centred around a harbour with fishing boats, reflecting a traditional lifestyle. There were no major roads or large-scale commercial structures.
By 2004, the landscape had been completely altered. The population surged to 80,000, supported by 50,000 tourist beds. The woodland and grazing areas were replaced by a golf course, farmland to supply hotels, and extensive hotel complexes along the beach. The original village was expanded to include tourist shops, and new residential areas for locals were constructed. Furthermore, a road network was developed to connect the various parts of the resort, and high-rise buildings were erected, marking a transition to a modern, high-density tourist destination.