At the Seytan Kahvesi, the Ayvalik “Devil’s Café,” a photography exhibition by Mytilene native Babbi Stylianidis was inaugurated on Saturday, October 12. This exhibition is dedicated to the souls still lingering in the space.

The old Ayvalik café, formerly known as Hatzimitsos’ café before 1922 in Paliompachtse and famous as a haunt for smugglers, remains alive and filled with memories. Babbi Stylianidis dedicates his exhibition to his refugee ancestors from Ayvalik — his grandmother Marigo, his grandfather Stratis, and his mother Anastasia. Meanwhile, the café’s owner, Suat Kacak, who inherited it from his father Halil, a Muslim from Agra in western Lesbos who was exchanged as a Turk in 1923 under the Treaty of Lausanne, dedicates his friend’s exhibition to his own father, who took root in Ayvalik at the shop once owned by an unknown Greek.

Today, the Seytan Kahvesi — the “Devil’s Café,” named after the difficult and restless character of its first Turkish manager — is run by Suat, his son, and his grandson. Now in its fourth Turkish generation, and with countless Greek roots, the café preserves its centuries-old characteristics. It remains a vibrant place that captures the diversity of life, gathering stories of the rich and poor, workers and intellectuals, artists, painters, photographers, actors, musicians, Muslims, and Christians who visit the city opposite Mytilene.

Babbi Stylianidis, a native of Mytilene, has also lived in Athens at various times. His love for classic motorcycles and photography has led him to a creative path, where he has collaborated as a freelancer with newspapers and magazines. What sets him apart is his ability to discover and capture the unnoticed details of daily life, giving them value.

The photography exhibition “Cafés in the East and West” will remain open until Thursday, October 17, and can be visited during the operating hours of… the Devil’s Café!