Princes' Islands - the abode of the disgraced emperors

Princes' islands are called archipelago, consisting of nine different in size islands. They are one of the districts of the province of Istanbul. Such an interesting name for the archipelago was due to the fact that here all people of noble birth and even royal family were exiled to the government. Since the beginning of the XIX century, the islands have been used as a resort recreation area.

In the Sea of Marmara are the Princes' Islands. Istanbul, if viewed from the Asian part, is 2.5 km away, if from the European part - 12 - 22 km. Interestingly, the archipelago received this name from foreigners, the Turks call it simply Adalar, which means "islands". If earlier the Princes Islands were used to imprison noble persons, today it is one of the most popular destinations for excursions. They only get to the destination by ferry, on the islands themselves are not allowed to drive cars. You can walk, rent a bicycle or ride a horse- drawn carriage.

The largest of the islands is Buyukad. It was he who received the largest number of individuals of the royal blood, claiming the imperial throne. Here is a nunnery, built by the order of the Empress Irina, who later became his hostage. In it lived unwanted courtyard women, as well as old monks. Büyükada is interesting because Christian churches, mosques and synagogues coexist peacefully here, practically built in the neighborhood.

The second largest island is Heybeliada. Very long ago it was built three monasteries, and there was a small fishing village. But after the Princes' Islands attracted attention, the population of Heybeliad gradually grew, a ferry service with Istanbul was established. Already in the twentieth century, various institutions were built, among which is the Marine College and the Trade School.

Christians will be interested to see the monasteries of Ayia Yorgi Uchurum and Terki Dunia, as well as the Church of St. Mary, which since the fourteenth century have been preserved by the Princes' Islands. Beaches are also available, during excursions, tourists can swim in the clear clear waters of the Sea of Marmara.

In third place is the largest island of Burgazada, which means "fortress". It can simultaneously accommodate about 15 thousand people, but the indigenous population is no more than 1,500. This island should definitely go to those who love antiquity. It is necessary to visit the church of Ayia-Yani, the construction of which dates back to the IX century, the last time the building was restored two centuries ago. Under the church is equipped with a dungeon, which is 11 steps. Here you can see the holy spring Ayios Loanis, as well as the monastery of Christ.

The Princes' Islands are very exotic and interesting, but only three of the above islands are worth visiting, as the rest of the special cultural values do not represent. True, you can still look at Kinalali, which has the color of henna. There is very little greenery here, but there are a lot of stones. Sedefadas from afar resembles a mother-of-pearl because of the evergreen trees growing on it.

Princes' Islands is a very interesting place, allowing you to get acquainted with Turkish culture, plunge into history and admire the amazing beauty of the local nature.