The Princes' Islands are the refuge of disgraced emperors. Beaches of Prince Islands Islands near Istanbul
If you happen to visit, be sure to find one day for a boat trip. , as a port city, simply obliges the traveler to do this. Marine transport is developed here on a par with land transport, and every day many ferries and boats ply back and forth along the strait and bay.
During the Byzantine Empire, princes and other persons close to emperors exiled to the islands; later relatives of the Ottoman sultans were sent there, which gave the islands their current name - Princes' Islands .
During the 19th century, the islands became a popular holiday destination for wealthy Greeks, Armenians and the Jews of Constantinople. Greek and Jewish communities still make up a small part of the islands' population.
Princes' Islands- an ideal place for a day trip. Although there is another interesting and romantic option - to stay at a hotel on one of the islands for the night. This will allow you to take a walk to your heart's content, explore all the corners of the wild nature, have dinner without rushing in coastal cafes, and in the evening, if you are lucky with the weather, see a fantastic sunset over the Sea of Marmara and wake up in silence.
Of the nine Princes' Islands, only five are inhabited, and most ferries from Istanbul stop at four of them - Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınaliada.
This place is one of the most mysterious and interesting attractions in Turkey. You will learn about which of the nine islands are the most popular and what attracts tourists to this unusual place.
1. Büyükada (Greek: Prinkipo, "Πρίγκηπος" meaning "Prince") with an area of 5.36 km²
2. Heybeliada (Greek: Halki) area 2.4 km²
3. Burgazada (Greek: Antigoni) area 1.5 km²
4. Kınalıada (Greek: Proti, Πρώτη, meaning “First” as it is closest to Istanbul) area 1.3 km²
5. Sedef Adası (Greek: Terebinthos) with an area of 0.157 km²
6. Yassıada (Greek: Plati) with an area of 0.05 km²
7. Sivriada (Greek: Okseia) with an area of 0.05 km²
8. Kaşıkadası (spoon island, so named because of its shape) with an area of 0.006 km²
9. Tavşanadası with an area of 0.004 km²
Sasha Mitrakhovich 04.11.2015 23:26
History of the islands.
The Princes' Islands (also known as Kyzyladalar, or simply Adalar, Prens Adalari) are located in the Sea of Marmara, not far from the Asian coast of Istanbul, twenty kilometers from the city center. The Princes' Islands have quite a turbulent and interesting history. In the spring of 1453, the archipelago was captured by the commander-in-chief of Baltacioglu, Suleyman Beyya.
The islands changed many names, and during the Ottoman Empire they were called Kyzyl Adalary (Red Islands). Since the Greek Patriarchate received rights to the island, the Princes' Islands have become more popular for non-Muslim people. The appearance of the Turks on the islands dates back only to the beginning of the 19th century. Also at the beginning of the 19th century, the Princes' Islands became a favorite vacation spot for wealthy Armenians, Greeks and Jews, but subsequently Turks also began to appear here, thanks to the influx of Turkish capital.
Historical reference:
Its name - Princes' Islands- they received thanks to the ancient tradition of the emperors of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires: princes, princesses and other persons of the imperial court who were capable of encroaching on their throne or simply monks and representatives of the nobility of that time who had fallen out of favor with the emperor were referred to these islands. Here these princes were often blinded or simply executed or kept in prison. Locals often call these islands simply Adalar - islands.
Nowadays, the Princes' Islands are one of the priority destinations for daily excursions from the capital of Turkey. You can only get to the Princes' Islands by ferry, and you can travel around them either on foot or on a rented bicycle, which costs tourists 25 liras per day. By the way, travel by any other type of transport except bicycles and horse-drawn carts is strictly prohibited, which makes the archipelago one of the most environmentally friendly places in Turkey. The archipelago consists of nine islands: Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kınalyada, Sedefadası, Kashikadası, Yassyada, Sivriada, Tavshanadası. The last 4 islands are uninhabited, therefore, in principle, they are of no tourist value.
Sasha Mitrakhovich 09.11.2015 12:43
Princes' Islands Istanbul: Büyükada Island is the largest island of the archipelago in the Sea of Marmara.
Buyukada(big island) is the largest and most visited island of the entire archipelago. Its area is 5.4 square kilometers and is home to about 7,500 thousand people.
Any type of fuel-powered transport is prohibited on the island, so people travel around the island by horse and bicycle.
It was this island that was the main place of exile for princes and other imperial persons. In the past, there was a convent on the island, which housed elderly monks and exiled women.
At the highest point of the island (203 meters above sea level), there is a beautiful view of the other islands of the archipelago and the Sea of Marmara itself. There is also an ancient, but still functioning temple of St. George.
This island began to enjoy popularity after ferries began running here in the 19th century. This island is the most attractive for tourists: people of all ages and religions, rich and poor, flock there, so during the season it is better to book rooms in one of the two hotels in advance.
Sasha Mitrakhovich 09.11.2015 12:43
Heybeliada Island (Bag Island)
Heybeliada (bag island) is the second largest island of the Princes' Islands. Its area is 2.4 square kilometers. The island is home to a large number of copper mines, which is why it was called “Kalkitis” during the Byzantine Empire.
Also in the past, this island was called “Demonisos”; there was a small fishing settlement and several monasteries on it.
Around the 19th century, population growth began, and by the 20th century various institutions began to open on the island. Heybeliada will be interesting for tourists thanks to the Church of St. Mary, which was built in the mid-14th century.
Today, a naval cadet school is located on the island. The most suitable place for picnics is the so-called Mill Cape (Degirmen Burnu). The cape received such an interesting name because of the ruins of an old mill that have survived to this day. In addition, for a fee you can ride a donkey and visit the market square, which is located not far from the Church of St. Nicholas.
Sasha Mitrakhovich 09.11.2015 12:43
Kinalyada Island (henna island)
Kınalyada (henna island) is the first inhabited island, which is located just 14 kilometers from Istanbul. Its area is only 1.65 square kilometers. The island got its name from the reddish bushes that cover most of its territory. The color of the soil, which is rich in copper and iron, gives the island an even greater reddish color. It is not without reason that during the Byzantine Empire the lands of the “henna islands” were used to build the walls of Constantinople. Kynalyada is the calmest of all the inhabited islands of the archipelago. What is noteworthy is that civilization reached the island only closer to the middle of the 20th century: until 1946, local residents managed without electricity, and modern water supply appeared only in the early eighties. The aborigines on the island are predominantly Armenians, their number is approximately 80-85% of the total local population. The island's attractions include several monasteries, a mosque and a church. For tourists, Kynalyada is not of particular value, due to the fact that most of its territory is built up with villas and mansions of wealthy representatives of the Armenian communities.
Sasha Mitrakhovich 09.11.2015 12:43
Kashikadası Island (Spoon Island)
Kashikadasi (spoon island) got its name due to its shape resembling a piece of tableware. Its area is 0.06 square kilometers. There are practically no buildings on the island: just a few buildings and a tiny pier. Kashikadası is closed to tourists as it is a private property.
The Princes' Islands are an archipelago in the Sea of Marmara, consisting of nine small islands, which belongs to the administrative district of Istanbul called Adalar.
Today, the islands are one of the most popular destinations for day trips and excursions in Istanbul. They can only be reached by ferry, and there is no car traffic on the islands themselves - only horse-drawn carts and bicycles.
Sunny, warm weather is the best time to visit these beautiful picturesque places. In addition, a ferry ride in the warm season is especially pleasant.
Buyukada island
Throughout history, the Princes' Islands have had many names, including: Holy Islands (Evliya adaları), Divided Islands (Kesiş adaları), Islands of the Spirit/Soul (Ruh adaları), Public Islands (Halka adaları) and others. Among them, the most widespread and famous all over the world is the Princes' Islands (Prens Adaları). This name stems from the fact that from the Roman to the end of the Byzantine period, aristocrats, princes and even queens were exiled and exiled to the islands, where they were tortured to death.
Of the nine islands, four are inhabited and receive guests - Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kınalıada, one - Sedefadasi - half inaccessible to visitors, two - Kaşıkadası and Yassyada ( Yassıada) are private properties, and two more - Sivriada and Tavşanadası - are completely uninhabited. The most remote of the islands is located approximately 35 km from the central part of the city.
Buyukada island
The largest in area is the island of Büyükada (5.4 square kilometers).
In fact, a thousand years ago, there were 10 islands in the archipelago, but one of them, called Vordonisi, went under water after a major earthquake. When photographed from the air, this sunken island is visible.
Since the middle of the 19th century, the islands were inhabited by peoples of various religions: the population consisted of Armenians, Greeks, and Jews.
Since 1846, a ferry service has been established between Istanbul and the islands. From that time on, Turks began to settle on the islands, both for permanent residence and buying houses for summer holidays.
How to get to the Princes' Islands
There is a ferry service between the islands and Istanbul
Communication between the islands and Istanbul is well established, all ferries run on schedule, but in the event of bad weather conditions (there are often storms and fogs in Istanbul), then sea transport links are closed. Therefore, when planning your trip to the islands, look at the weather forecast in advance - it is best to choose a sunny day, without rain or thunderstorms, otherwise there is a chance of staying on the island overnight. If you find the Lodos wind period in Istanbul, then it is also better to refrain from traveling to the islands.
If weather conditions are favorable for travel, then check out the necessary information in advance.
You can get to the Princes' Islands by ferry from the Asian part of the city from the Bostancı, Kadıköy and Kartal piers. From the European part of the city you can get there from the Eminönü pier. Transportation is carried out by several companies: Şehir Hatları and Mavi Marmara. What are the differences between these carriers? First of all, their schedules are slightly different from each other. Şehir Hatları has large ferries, reminiscent of old steamships, with buffets inside, so during the trip you can drink tea/coffee, chew simit and enjoy the views of Istanbul. As for the Mavi Marmara carrier, they have smaller ferries, a little newer than the previous ones, there is also a buffet where you can drink tea or tea in the cold season, and freshly squeezed orange juice in the hot season. But if you are going to the islands for the first time, then it is worth taking a ride on a large ship, like the Şehir Hatları - this will add color to the trip.
Prices at the buffet on ferries are quite affordable: 1.5-2 liras, toast with cheese 5 liras, chocolates around 4-8 liras.
To get to the Eminönü pier itself, you need to take the tram along the T1 line and get off at the Eminönü stop. If you are coming from the Sultanahmet area, it will take about 15 minutes.
Princes' Islands and their historical sites
To begin with, we note that on Mondays many historical institutions on the islands are closed, but if you just want to take a walk and look at the beauty from the outside, then you can safely go on a trip on Monday.
There are several ways to get acquainted with the sights of the island: walking, renting bicycles or horse-drawn carriages. I recommend the third method as a last resort - driving is carried out only on main roads, a short route, you will not see all the beauty and interesting places this way. In addition, at the moment there is an active fight against the use of horses for such entertainment, since after stress in hot weather, as well as due to lack of proper care, horses constantly die.
Bicycle rental costs about 5 Turkish lira per hour - it is better to rent for the whole day.
On the island of Büyükada you can visit:
- Museum of the Islands, which was created in 2010. This exhibition contains collections of various objects and exhibits related to the history of the islands: archival photos and documents, things, videos and other interesting objects are collected here, which bring together the entire history from the beginning of the geological formation of the archipelago to the present day. Part of the museum is located on the site of an old helicopter hangar (Aya Nikola Hangar Müze Alanı), part on the territory of the Adaevi Çınar Müzesi Museum.
Museum of Islands on Buyukada Island (Aya Nikola Hangar Müzesi)
- Monasteries and churches of various faiths: Hamidiye Camii Mosque, Ayios Dimitrios kilisesi Church, Ayios Nikolaos Manastırı Monastery, Hesed Le Avraam Sinagogu, Church of Jesus Christ on Isa Tepesi Hill ( Hristos Manastırı Isa Tepesi), Church of St. George on Yucetepe Hill (Aya Yorgi Rum Manastırı) and others.
Church of St. George (Aya Yorgi Rum Manastırı) on the island of Buyukada
Tourists from Russia will be interested to know that Leon Trotsky, who was expelled from the USSR by Stalin, lived on the island of Buyukada. You can find the house in which he lived at Çankaya Caddesi 55. There was a fire in the building in March 1931, after which it was not restored, however, through the high fence you can see the ruins of the house.
If you're hungry, you can try seafood at any of the restaurants located right by the sea. Standing with your back to the pier, they will be on your left hand (literally a 3-4 minute walk to the left when leaving the pier). Along the coastline, restaurants are located in one lane with no distance between them. The average bill for two without alcohol is from 80 to 120 liras.
On the island of Burgazada you can see:
- Museum of the writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık Müzesi
- rock (cape) Kalpazankaya
- cemetery cape Mezarlık Burnu
Monastery of Jesus Christ on Bayrak Hill (Christos Manastırı)
The island of Heybeliada has attractions such as:
- Cape Deirmen Burnu with the ruins of an ancient mill (Değirmenburnu)
- Church of St. George (Aya Yorgi Uçurum Kilisesi)
- Church of Ayios Nikolaos Kilisesi
Cape Değirmen Burnu on the island of Heybeliada
In the summer, you especially want to shiver in the sun and swim in the sea. In this case, you can combine business with pleasure - see the sights on the islands in the morning, and by lunchtime, in hot weather, visit the local beach.
The cost of entry to the beach may differ slightly from the indicated one by 5-10 liras.
Büyükada beaches
1. Yörükali Plajı - near Cape Dilburnu
Yorükali Beach in Buyukada (Yörükali Plajı)
On weekends: 40
Children under 12 years old are free.
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, a table next to the sun lounger, use of a shower and toilet, and changing cabins.
You can get there from the pier on the island - small yachts run free of charge to the beach and back.
2. Nakibey Beach (Nakibey Plajı) on the eastern side of the island.
Nakibey Beach in Buyukada (Nakibey Plajı)
Opening hours: 08.00 – 21.30
Entrance fee on weekdays: 35 Turkish lira
On weekends: 40 liras
Children under 7 years old are free, older children pay 15 liras.
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, a table next to the sun lounger, use of a shower and toilet, changing cabins, and an area with tables for relaxation.
There is a restaurant and cafe on the beach.
You can also get there from the pier on the island - small yachts run free of charge to the beach and back.
3. Yada Beach Club
Yada Beach Club in Buyukada
Opening hours: 08.00 – 24.00
On weekends: 50 liras
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, a cushion for a sun lounger, a towel, a table next to the sun lounger, use of a shower and toilet, changing cabins, and a parking space for the yacht.
There is a restaurant, cafe and bar on the beach.
4. Prenses Koyu Plajı at the base of Cape Dilburnu
Prenses Beach in Buyukada (Prenses Koyu Plajı)
Entrance fee on weekdays: 30 Turkish lira
On weekends: 40 liras
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, storage space, use of a shower and toilet, and changing cabins.
There is a restaurant, cafe and bar on the beach.
You can also get there from the Buyukada pier on a free yacht.
5. Aya Nikola Beach (Aya Nikola Halk Plajı)
Aya Nikola on Buyukada (Aya Nikola Halk Plajı)
Entrance fee on weekdays is 25 Turkish lira
On weekends: 30 liras
There is a cafe on the beach.
Get there from the Buyukada pier on a free yacht.
Heybeliada beaches
1. Ada Beach
Ada Beach on Heybeliada Island
Opening hours: 08:30 – 19:00
On weekends: 40 liras
For children under 12 years of age admission is free.
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, use of a shower and toilet, changing cabins, and mini golf.
You can get there from the Heybeliada pier on free yachts (departure to the island from 10:00, from the island after 16:30).
2. Aqua Green Beach Club - the old name of Sadyk Bey beach
Aqua Green Beach Club on Heybeliada Island
Entrance fee on weekdays and Saturdays: 35 Turkish lira
Sunday: 50 Turkish lira
Children under 7 years old are free.
The price includes an umbrella, a sun lounger, use of a shower and toilet, and changing cabins.
You can get there from the Heybeliada pier on free yachts (departure to the island from 9:30, from the island after 16:30).
3. Alman Koyu Beach and Akvaryum Koyu Beach - the beaches are nearby.
Alman Koyu Beach on Heybeliada (Alman koyu)
On the beach you can also rent a sun lounger with an umbrella, there are showers and cabins.
Entrance fees can be determined on site.
Beaches of Burgazada
Kalpazankaya beach on Burgazada island (Kalpazankaya plajı)
On the island of Burgazada you can visit Kalpazankaya beach, but I don’t recommend going here specifically, if you are on the island for walking and sightseeing, then you can stop by here. But this place is interesting not so much for the beach, but for the Kalpazankaya restaurant, located right on the hill with a beautiful view.
The beach is not as well equipped as the beaches in Buyukada. There is a small cafe (drinks and snacks), sun loungers and umbrellas, a changing cabin, the toilet is located in the restaurant (you need to go up the path).
Beaches on the island of Sedefada
On the island of Sedef adasi you can visit the following beaches:
1. Beach Ada Sedef
Ada Sedef Beach (Club Ada Sedef) on Sedefadası Island
Entrance fee on weekdays: 30 Turkish lira
On weekends: 50 liras
The price includes a sun lounger, umbrella, shower, toilet.
You can get there from the Buyukada pier, the free yacht leaves at 11:30/returns at 18:00, or from the Kartal pier (Kartal iskelesi) on the Asian side of Istanbul, İDO ferries depart at 11:00
2. Elio Beach (Elio Sedef), entrance fee on weekdays: 35 Turkish liras, on weekends: 50 liras.
Elio Sedef Beach on Sedefadası Island
3. Sedefadasi beach (Sedefadasi plajı) - located on the right side of Ada Sedef beach.
Sedefadasi beach
Istanbul is one of the most famous resorts in Turkey, a huge metropolis located in two parts of the world - European and Asian. It is famous not only for its many beautifully preserved architectural monuments and a large number of buildings, for which millions of “fashion pilgrims” from all over the world flock to Istanbul.
Istanbul resorts are another sweet highlight of Turkey. Well-developed infrastructure, excellent service at the highest level, clean and amazing nature - all this makes Istanbul immensely attractive for beach lovers.
Princes' Islands in Istanbul
The so-called Princes' Islands are an archipelago, or group of islands, near Istanbul. They are located in Mramornye and administratively belong to the Adalar district. Often the islands are also called Adalary, which literally means “islands”. There are 9 Prince Islands in total. They received this name for the reason that in ancient times, when Istanbul was still Constantinople, and the Byzantine Empire existed on the site of today’s Turkey, all heirs to the throne who could somehow threaten the power of the emperor were referred to these islands forever. Numerous princes and princesses, emperors and empresses, so as not to dare to encroach on the throne, were doomed to live for life on the Princes' Islands near Istanbul.
During the Ottoman Empire, the Adalar Islands became a place of exile for unwanted relatives of the Sultan. For such high-born nobility, deportation from the capital Istanbul to the Princes' Islands was a huge humiliation and disgrace. But over time, the 9 islands in the Sea of Marmara ceased to have such a negative meaning and turned into one of the best resort towns in Turkey. They began to be actively developed back in the 19th century. Greeks, Jews, Armenians, and later Turks settled on the islands. To this day, Greeks and Jews make up the bulk of the population.
Now the Princes' Islands Adalar is a popular resort. Because of its beauty, the island is called the “nine pearls of the Sea of Marmara.” There is no car traffic on them. Transport is exclusively horse-drawn. The map shows that the islands located near Istanbul are separated from the mainland by a significant stretch of water.
How to get from Istanbul to Princes' Islands.
By ship or ferry:
- If you sail from the Asian part of the metropolis, you need to land at the piers in the areas of Bostanji and Kartal,
- from European - to Sirkeci and Kabatase.
It takes about an hour to sail to the islands located near Istanbul. The ferry schedule can be found directly at the piers. Those who are interested in the question of which pier ships to the Princes' Islands in Istanbul depart from can be successfully directed to the same piers. They are common to different modes of transport. The description of the Princes' Islands is inextricably linked with the story of each of the “puzzles” of this beautiful archipelago in the Sea of Marmara.
Princes' Islands - Buyukada
Buyukada is the largest island of the nine. It is separated from the coast by the strait of the same name. The area of Buyukada Island is just over 5 square meters. km. Now about 8 thousand people permanently live on it. Residents settled mainly in the northern and northeastern parts of the island. In the south, the territory is more mountainous and therefore sparsely populated. There are several villages on the island: Nizam, Buyukada, Tepekoy.
The places here are stunningly beautiful; There is many great beaches and hotels for tourists. The hotels are small, very beautiful mansions. Holidays on the Princes' Islands are considered luxury, so hotel prices are quite high. For example, accommodation in an elite mansion at the Anastasia Meziki boutique hotel will cost no less than 100 euros per day per person. And this is only on weekdays. On weekends the price for a standard room rises to 150 euros.
Many hotels on this Buyuk Adalar island have private free beaches and are distinguished by the highest level of service. Many tourists are interested in the question of whether it is possible to swim in this area of the Marmara Sea. Due to its location, the beaches of the Princes' Islands are almost never empty. starts in March and lasts almost until November. The water temperature rises rapidly in the spring, and the most
Wealthy residents of Istanbul and tourists who are ready to shell out a tidy sum for a stay in this piece of paradise. The most pleasant weather for tourists unaccustomed to the Istanbul heat is in April-May. Closer to June, almost all the Princes' Islands experience the unbearable heat that is usual for Istanbul. Only the beaches and the cleanest sea save us.
Choosing which tour or excursion to the islands is best is quite simple. If you are interested not only in a beach holiday, but also in the sights of the Princes' Islands of Istanbul, then you will undoubtedly come to Buyukada Island. Here many interesting places:
- ancient monastery of St. George of Kudun,
- Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord on the top of the mountain,
- Hamidiye Mosque built by Abdul Hamid II,
- Church of Demetrius of Thessalonica,
- Church of St. George the Victorious,
- Trotsky's house, in which Lev Davidovich lived on Buyukada for 4 years,
- and much more.
Heybeliada Island
Heybeliada is the second largest Princes' Island; it occupies an area of 2.5 square meters. km. The population of this beautiful resort island is just over 4 thousand people. It got its name from the Turkish phrase “island with a bag.” Many centuries ago, huge deposits of copper were found on it; apparently, the image of miners evoked such peculiar associations. Heybeliada, like many other Adalar islands in Istanbul, has very expensive real estate. Rich citizens settle here who are able to afford not only the purchase of a luxurious mansion in one of the towns of Heybeliada, but also the purchase of a yacht or even the maintenance of a private beach.
What should history buffs see in this part of the Princes' Islands? First of all, Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas, built back in 1857. This island, like all the islands of the archipelago, is a protected area with an exceptionally clean ecology. Traveling along it in any vehicle is strictly prohibited (with the exception of firefighter and police vehicles).
Burgazada, or Burgaz, is the third largest and most populous Princes' Island in Istanbul. The number of its inhabitants is only 1.5 thousand people. The name of the island translates as “fort”. Indeed, many centuries ago Demetrius I Poliorcetes, who lived in 336-283 BC. e., built a fortified fortress here, a fort. The island has a hilly surface.
From the sights you can see:
- Ayia Yani Church,
- monastery of Christ,
- spring with holy water Ayazma,
- hospital of st. George,
- house-museum of the famous and highly revered writer Sait Faik Abasyyanik.
The first one is located on Burgazada private zoo And one of the first sanatoriums in Istanbul.
Kynalyada Island
Kynalyada is approximately equal in size to Burgaz. A little over 3 thousand people live on this island. The surface of Kinaliada is hilly and the least wooded of all the Princes' Islands. It was this piece of earthly land that was most often used to exile unwanted royal children. According to legend, the Byzantine Empress Irina (752-803), Emperor Michael I Rangave (770-844) and numerous royal offspring, whose succession to the throne was undesirable for one reason or another, “served their punishment” here.
The name of the island translates as “henna island.” It was named so because of the reddish tint of the soil, which it received due to the high content of copper and iron.
Sedefadası Island
Sedefadası is the smallest of the Princes' Islands of Istanbul. Once upon a time, the island was buried in greenery and seemed like mother-of-pearl in the shimmer of the sea waves. Hence its name, which literally translates as “mother-of-pearl island.” Unfortunately, due to high levels of soil erosion, most of the plants died. Sedefadasy was also used as a place of expulsion of people dangerous to the government. The great Patriarch Ignatios served his sentence here, imprisoned in one of the island’s many monasteries.
It is interesting that in the 20th century, after the proclamation of the republic, the island was inherited by the wife of the Turkish poet Hussein Siret, Yegana Khanum, and her two children. They organized a family construction cooperative and literally revived the island. The once deserted place of exile turned into a populated area with a ferry pier. Now people live here, and the tourism business is actively developing.
“Yassyada” is translated from Turkish as “flat island”. This is one of the smallest islands of the archipelago. For a long time there were quarries on it, until in 1979 the Istanbul authorities declared Yassyada a protected area.
In 2009, the island was transferred to the Ministry of Defense, which quickly closed access to tourists. Construction began on the territory of Yassyada, which caused great discontent among defenders of the cultural heritage and natural wealth of Turkey. Since then, there have been constant debates about whether it is necessary to build on the small island, and whether construction waste will pollute the waters of the Sea of Marmara. Meanwhile, construction continues.
Sivriada Island
Sivriada is the closest island to Yassyada. But unlike the latter, Sivriada has a mountainous surface and a pyramid shape. For this reason, it is called “pointed island” in Turkish. On the highest hill of this Prince's Island is old lighthouse, which still shows the way for ships.
Sivriada is another island with a sad fate: disgraced clergy and members of royal families were exiled here. In the 10th century, a monastery was built here, within the walls of which exiles lived out their days. The island is uninhabited and deserted, which reflects its other name - “useless”. At the beginning of the 20th century, dozens of stray dogs began to be brought to Sivriada, which eventually devoured each other. There was simply nothing else for the unfortunate animal to eat. So not all of Istanbul's Princes' Islands are great resorts. There are also quite sad places.
Kashikadası Island
Kashikadası Island translates as “spoon island”. This particular cutlery is shaped like this small island of the Princes' Islands archipelago. Kashikadasa is not open to the public and is private property. In the second half of the 20th century, it was bought by the wealthy Istanbul family Dinchkek. Now there are only a few buildings on the island and a small pier for private ships.
Tavshanadası Island
Tavshanadasy is another small (area only 0.04 sq. km), practically uninhabited island. The name translates as “hare island”. It is densely covered with vegetation and is private property. Nothing more is known about this most mysterious island of the archipelago.
Princes' Islands on the map of Istanbul:
The Princes' Islands are an archipelago of nine islands that are administratively one of the districts of Istanbul Province. They received their name due to the purpose for which they were used by the rulers of first the Byzantine and then the Ottoman empires. All representatives of august families and royal persons who were out of favor were exiled here.
In the 19th century, predominantly wealthy representatives of the Armenian, Jewish and Greek communities began to vacation here, but gradually the population became more Turkish due to the influx of Turkish capital.
Today, the Princes' Islands are one of the popular destinations for day trips from Istanbul. You can only get here by ferry, and on the islands there is only horse-drawn transport and bicycles that can be rented (about 6 TRY per hour). Prices on the page are as of April 2019.
The names of each of the islands are not only exotic (like the area itself), but also very difficult to pronounce.
But this is unnecessary
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Buyukada
The “Big Island” of Büyükada is, as the name suggests, the largest in the archipelago. Its area is 5.4 square meters. kilometers, 7,400 people live on it. It was Büyükada that was the main place of exile for the august persons - contenders for the throne of the emperor. For some time, there was a convent on the territory of the island, where women disliked by the court, as well as elderly monks, were sent. It is interesting that Empress Irina, who is the creator of this monastery, later herself became its monastery.
Since the 19th century, ferries began to ply here, and gradually the island began to become popular both among tourists and among representatives of the Turkish nobility. A distinctive feature of Büyükada is the unique proximity of mosques, Christian churches and a synagogue. The Church of St. Demetrius is still active to this day, and Orthodox Christians are also given the opportunity to plunge into the holy springs - Ayazma.
There is also a unique wooden building of an orphanage - the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world.
Trip to Buyukada Island
Heybeliada
“Island with a bag” Heybeliada is in second place in size and owes its name to the resemblance to a saddle pack - “heide”. Its dimensions are approximately 3 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide. Once upon a time this island was called Demonisos, and there were three monasteries on it, as well as a small fishing village. Gradually, from the 19th century, the population here began to increase, thanks to the emergence of a ferry connection with the mainland. In the 20th century, a Trade School, a Naval School and other institutions began to appear here.
Lovers of Christian shrines will be interested in the 14th century Church of St. Mary, the monasteries of Terki Dunya and Aya Yorgi Uchurum. In addition, Heybeliada is popular among tourists during the summer seasons, thanks to numerous sightseeing tours.
5 things to do in the Princes' Islands
- Find out on which island Leon Trotsky spent 4 years of his life.
- Take part in a unique donkey tour on any of the islands.
- Visit Istanbul's first private zoo at Burgazada.
- Find out why in one of the Burgazy restaurants the owner fills a glass every day in the hands of a monument.
- Try raki - the national Turkish alcoholic drink.
Test: how well do you know Turkey? | 15 questions:
Burgazada
In terms of area, Burgazada (“Fortress”) occupies an honorable third place. This island is 15 kilometers away from the port of Istanbul, and it has an almost square shape: both its length and width are 2 kilometers. It began to be settled only in the 20th century by the Turkish nobility, but still the indigenous population does not exceed 1,500, while during the season there can be up to 15 thousand people on the island at the same time.
The main attraction of Burgazad is the Aya-Yani Church. It itself was built in the 9th century, and the last restoration took place here only in the 19th century. For those who love antiquities, a visit to the island will be a real gift. Under the church there is a dungeon, into which you can go down 11 steps.
In addition, there is the Monastery of Christ, the first sanatorium building in Turkey, as well as the holy spring of Ayyos Loanis.
Kynalyada
The “Island with Henna”, the fourth in a row, ends the beauty of the Princes’ Islands. It got its name because of the color of the soil, which has a characteristic shade from the iron it contains. Here you can find relatively little greenery, but a large number of stones: it was from here that during the heyday of the Byzantine Empire, materials for the construction of fortress walls were exported. Due to the lack of greenery, Kinalyada is not very popular among tourists.
Sedefadasy
The "Mother of Pearl Island" of Sedefadasa is the smallest of the inhabited islands of the group. Previously, evergreen trees grew abundantly on the island, thanks to which it resembled mother-of-pearl from afar. Today, as a result of erosion, the green spaces have decreased, but after the island became private property in the 20th century, the construction of a settlement was organized here, and today it again welcomes tourists.
Other islands
The islands of Kashikadası (“spoon island”), Yassyada (“carnal island”), Sivriada (“pointed island”) and Tavshanadası (“rabbit island”) are not inhabited and therefore are not of particular value to tourists.
Adalary (translated from Turkish as “islands”) are 9 islands in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul. Officially, they belong to the province of Istanbul, forming one of its administrative districts, which is called the Adalary district.
In total, the archipelago has 9 islands, but to visit Only 4 of them are open:
- Büyükada- the largest of the adalars, its area is about 5.36 square meters. km,
- Heybeliada,
- Burgazada,
- Kınalıada.
Adalar Sedefadasi, located approximately 1100 meters from the furthest island accessible to tourists, Buyukada, is half populated, but ferries do not go there, so it is closed to tourists.
Two islands - Kaşıkadası and Yassyada- are private properties, and two more - Sivriada and Tavşanadası and completely uninhabited.
Interesting fact. About 1000 years ago there were 10 islands, but one of them, called Vordonisi, went under water after a strong earthquake. They say that when filming from the air, this sunken adalar is clearly visible.
Throughout their existence, the islands have been called by a variety of names: Holy, Divided, Public, Islands of the Soul. But the most famous and well-established name turned out to be the Princes' Islands. And they were named so because, from the beginning of the Roman to the end of the Byzantine period, unwanted princes, princesses and aristocracy referred to them. Here they had to live until their death, unable to return to the mainland.
All islands are inhabited along the coastline, in the middle of the islands there are mountains and forests
The most famous exile of the islands is Empress Irene, mother of Emperor Constantine VI.
The ferry service between Istanbul and Adalari was opened in 1946. Since that time, the islands have become a favorite vacation spot for Istanbul residents, and permanent residents appear here. Also, many rich Istanbul residents build country houses here.
How to get from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands on your own
The cheapest way to get to the islands (which we also used) is a ferry, equivalent to (Adalary is part of Istanbul). Ticket price using Istanbul Card - total 5.2 liras ($1.4) per person. There are also private ferries, they cost more - about 7 lira. You can also buy a Bosphorus tour, it will cost 15 liras ($4.1)
Here you can buy a 1.5 hour Bosphorus tour
In my opinion, much more interesting than tours along the Bosphorus is an independent trip to the islands. In this case, you can see all the delights of the strait, and have plenty of walks around the islands, and as a bonus - watch an amazing sunset on the water (if you leave the islands at about 17:30, like we did).
Ferries depart from any pier in Istanbul: Kabatash, Sirkeci or Eminönü on the European side of Istanbul or Bostanci, Kadikoy and Kartal on the Asian side of the city.
We boarded the ferry at Eminönü pier (the closest pier to the Sultanahmet area), so we will share the tram schedule on the Eminönü-Adalari route:
There are always many people who want to go to Adalary on the public ferry. And on weekends there are simply an incredible number of people interested. We arrived on the ferry about 20 minutes before departure, and we only managed to take seats on the floor of the upper deck (later it turned out that these seats at the stern were very VIP).
Our VIP seats at the stern
Those who arrived later had to sit in the aisles or simply stand between people sitting on the floor, because there was nowhere to sit.
It's still free, soon every centimeter of the deck will be occupied
However, among all this human chaos, throughout the entire trip, an old man deftly squeezed between people with a whole tray of glasses of hot tea, which anyone could buy.
If you are lucky enough to squeeze onto the side, you can see a bunch of seagulls flying behind the ferry:
Seagulls see you too:
Ferry passengers throw pieces of bread to the seagulls, and sometimes a clever seagull can catch a piece in flight.
Which islands are included in the archipelago and which one should you choose to visit?
Usually tourists spend only one day on Adalary, during which they have time to visit only one island. Most often, the choice falls on the Buyukada adalar, as the largest and most interesting. Of course, you can quickly explore all 4 islands in 1 day, but we didn’t just want to visit them “for show,” but to feel the atmosphere.
We also chose Buyukada for a detailed inspection, but let’s get to know all four islands available for visiting (in order of distance from Istanbul).
Kynalyada
Hotel photo:
Eskibağ Butik Hotel
Room rates start at $32 (depending on season). The price includes a buffet breakfast. Some rooms have beams with stunning sea views.
Hotel photo:
Other hotels in Buyukada:At 17:30 we boarded our ferry to Istanbul.
Bye-bye, Buyukada!
We chose the best time to set sail - along the way we caught an amazing sunset:
The beginning of sunset in the Sea of Marmara
Passing the island of Heybeliada
Sunset at Kadikoy pier
And finally - the “wrong side” of the sunset, the setting sun reflected in the windows of Istanbul houses:
