Princess Islands in Turkey: An Enchanting Journey into the World of Natural Beauty
Turkey -
It's a charming tourist tour amidst the waters and among the crowds of the nine islands comprising the Princess Islands. If you're looking for a safe haven to breathe in pure air, witness beautiful natural scenes such as sunrise and sunset, and enjoy gazing at green spaces filled with trees and diverse plants, then this article is for you to showcase everything related to your tourist tour on the Turkish Princess Islands.
1: Definition of the Princess Islands destination:
It is the most famous tourist destination in Istanbul, named so because of the frequent exile of princesses and princes inside it due to their rebellion against the Byzantine state's system. It later became a refuge for all the princesses and princes of old. The Princess Islands are known for their distinctive nature amidst the waters, being a source of peace and relaxation unlike any other destination in Turkey.
2: Where are the Princess Islands located?
The Princess Islands destination consists of nine islands situated in the Sea of Marmara, located on the Asian side of Istanbul. These islands vary in size and are positioned in a prominent location, attracting visitors from around the world, making them a tourist destination renowned for their breathtaking natural landscapes with vibrant colours and various activities.
3: Features and Characteristics of the Princess Islands in Turkey
The Princess Islands destination is characterised by its proximity to Istanbul, easily accessible via sea buses and private boats. It is a safe weekend getaway and a center for several different races, cultures, and religions as well. You can stroll through its peaceful, narrow streets surrounded by pine forests and see the old-style wooden countryside houses.
4: The Most Important Main Islands Within the Princess Islands in Turkey
Enjoy an exceptionally beautiful tour with a direct view of the sea inside the four main islands open to the public for exploration: Buyukada Island, Heybeliada Island, Burgazada Island, and Kinaliada Island.
- Buyukada Island
This island is the largest in terms of area, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to visit. The island is divided into two parts: the tranquil southern part is characterised by green spaces like forests, while the northern part is a residential area close to the pier, creating a picturesque natural image for its inhabitants and all its visitors.
- Heybeliada Island
It is the second-largest island within the Princess Islands, known for its distinctive nature, lush vegetation, and wooden houses that adorn it, making it a wonderful natural destination. It also features the Greek Orthodox monastery perched atop the island.
- Burgazada Island
It is the third-largest island in the Princess Islands and was known as "Panormos," becoming home to Greeks who have resided there since the Ottoman Empire.
-Kinaliada Island
The fourth and smallest island in the Princess Islands, it contains fewer forests and was named after the word "Kinali," which means henna due to its reddish color, attributed to the presence of iron and copper minerals in the past.
5: You can engage in many unique activities inside the Princess Islands in Turkey, such as:
-enjoying various water sports inside and outside water clubs like the sports club, which features an Olympic pool along with numerous distinctive water sports. This club is located on Kinaliada Island.
- Visiting Ayia Yorgi Church (Church of St. George), one of the most famous tourist landmarks on the islands. It's an Orthodox church located on the highest peak of Buyukada Island.
- Exploring Hamidiye Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques within the Princess Islands, built by Sultan Abdul Hamid II, showcasing Islamic architecture amidst the greenery and waters of the Sea of Marmara.
- Visiting Hristos Monastery: It's a unique historical destination located within Kinaliada Island in the Princess Islands, dating back to the exile period of Byzantine Emperor Romanos IV.