BÜYÜKADA

Description

Essentials about Büyükada in brief

With an area of about five square kilometers, Büyükada is the largest and certainly the most interesting of the nine Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara just outside Istanbul. The main reason for a trip to Büyükada for many people is probably the great view that one can enjoy from here of the Princes’ Islands, the Sea of Marmara and the city of Istanbul. But also the numerous still existing houses from the Ottoman period, which with their gardens form a relaxing contrast to densely built-up Istanbul, and the many historic churches and monasteries add to the charm of the island.

Sights on Büyükada

Moreover, there are many historical churches and monasteries on the island, such as the Greek Orthodox churches of Panagia and Hagios Demetrius, the Franciscan church of San Pacifico, the Armenian church of Surp Astvadzadzin Verapolium and the two Greek Orthodox monasteries of Hagios Georgios Koudonas and Sotiros Christou.

Büyükada consists of two hills. On the northern one is the now dilapidated building of the former Greek Orphanage. The peculiarity of the morbid structure is that it is the largest wooden structure in Europe and the second largest in the world. On top of the southern hill stands the church of Agia Yorgi. Those who accept the strenuous climb will be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the sea, the islands, the coast and Istanbul (and you can also have a snack in a café at the top).

Visiting Büyükada

As on all other Princes’ Islands, motorized vehicles are prohibited on Büyükada. It is all the more charming and decelerating to discover the island on foot, by bicycle or by horse-drawn carriage. There are local providers who offer tours around the island by horse-drawn carriage.