Prince's Island

The Princes' Island, just off the southern coast of Istanbul, commonly called just "the Islands' is a place where the people of İstanbul go to relax, especially during the hot summer months. While some residents of istanbul prefer the Islands for weekend trips, many families spend the entire summer there. It is possible to travel from one island to another quickly, and thus be able to visit a few of the islands in a single day. There are several buildings dating back to the Byzantine period on these islands, which were used as places of exile. Bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are used for transportation on all four of the islands, which are inhabited year-round. The islands can be visited by either taking a ferry or a sea bus from Eminonu, Kabatas, Kadikoy or Bostanci.

The largest island is Buyukada. It is known that some Byzantine emperors and empresses lived here in exile. Some of the most important historical buildings on Buyukada, the Women's Monastery Hagia Irene, Hagia Yorgi Monastery and Yucetepe Church, still retain their importance for Orthodox people. You can enjoy the unique views of the sea and islands from the top of the hill on which the church stands.

Buyukada, which has several swimming beaches, is also famous for the fish and savory dishes served at the restaurants along the shore near the pier. The next stop after Biiyiikada is Heybeliada. Like Buyukada, there are many historical houses that have been maintained in their original condition and are stil being used today. You can not help but admire the level of craftsmanship and detail of the wooden buildings.

The most important historical structure on Heybeli is Hagia Triada (Holy Trinity), the Orthodox seminary established by Saint Fotios, Patriarch of istanbul in the 9th century. This building on the peak of the highest hill on the island, which has been rebuilt several times, has also been used for several purposes over the years, as a temple, a resort, and place of exile. The third largest island is Burgaz, which is known historically as the place where Patriarch Metedios was sentenced to live in a dungeon. As with all of the islands, it has tourist appeal. The house where famous 20th century Turkish writer Sait Faik lived is now used as a museum. Kmahada, the smallest island, also has a monastery. The most renowned person who lived in exile on this island is Romanos Diogenes, a commander of the Byzantine army.