The Island
This is, the famous Greek historian Herodot’s quote, which you will certainly agree at the end of your unforgettable visit to Bozcaada. This lovely island is also known with its former name “Tenedos”, which was mentioned in ‘the Iliad and Odyssey’of Homer. The island is situated in front the ancient city of Troy, and this strategic location was claimed to be the station of the Greek fleet during the legendary Trojan War in the Homer’s account. Bozcaada (foremerly Tenedos) lies at the mouth of the Dardanelles, blessed with the beautiful colors of Aegean Sea. Bozcaada is a lovely tiny island with several historical places, wonderful beaches, delicious fish dishes and famous vineyards.
Bozcaada takes its place on the viniculture literature with its grapes. Grape culture is the inseparable part of life of the island, which also decorates the balconies of beautiful old houses on narrow streets. The beauty of the crystal clear waters and lovely beaches will stimulate your praise to the impressive nature of Bozcaada. Due to the island’s strategic position, Bozcaada had been occupied by several civilizations such as Greeks, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Geneose and Ottomans. The story of Bozcaada starts with the arrival of Tenes, the son of King Kyknos, to the Leukophrys island, which is renamed as Tenedos (Tenes’s Island). Pelasginas are thought to be the first inhabitants of the island approximately 5000 years ago.
Beginning from the ancient times the strategic location of the island, which is located at the mouth of Dardanelles, played a critical role in order to control firstly Troia (Troy) and than the Dardanelles. More recently the island was used as an air base by the Allied forces in the Gallipoli Campaign of First World War (WW I). Bozcaada castle is the first historical structure, which attracts your attention when you step the island. The castle have a very deep history dated back to Phoenicians time with cut stones. Later on, it was restored by the Genoese and the Venetians.
After the Ottoman takeover, Fatih Sultan Mehmet ordered the reconstruction of the Bozcaada Fort as it is remained today. This was performed by Gedik Ahmet Pasha. Some of the other historical structures that are worth to visit are Koprulu Mehmed Pasha Mosque, which was built in the 17th century, and the active church that was remained from Venetians. While you are walking on the streets, old Greek and Ottoman architectural structures can be seen in all narrow streets of the lovely island.
Location
Bozcaada is located in north of Aegean Sea, 12 nautical miles distant to Dardanelles Strait Entry. The island proximity to to the highlights of the Aegean and Istanbul gives a great advantage and flexibility to cruise companies in their itinerary planning.
Bozcaada is connected by a scheduled ferry to the mainland and the short distance of 3,4 nautical miles is covered in only 25 minutes.
Port Facts
Anchorage Area
Port & Tender Wharf
Terminal
Brand New Terminal located in city centre
What to see, where to visit?
Bozcaada Castle
As you approach the island by boat, the first site to attract your attention will be the imposing, majestic castle of the island. The grandeur of the castle reflects the rich past of the island.
Museum
Museum, located in the centre is a unique place for tourists who want to learn more about the place they visit. The main titles you can see in the museum collection are: fossils peculiar to Bozcaada, archaeological pieces, coins, maps...
The Church of Mother Mary
This is the only church currently open for worship services to Bozcaada's Orthodox congregation. It is situated in the heart of the Greek neighborhood.
The Köprülü Mehmet Pasa Mosque
This mosque, believed to have been demolished during the Venetian era, was restored in 1655 by Köprülü Mehmet Pasa. Today it is known within the community as the Yalı Mosque.
Where to Swim
The virgin coves with their crystal clear waters are another attraction of the island. Even in the most crowded season, you have the chance of finding a cove which is exclusively at your service.
And Much More...
Art Galleries, Nostalgic Streets, and the beautiful Harbour Area await you.
Download Full GuideGateway to Antiquities
The Ancient Troy
The first city on the site of Troy was Wilusa, founded in the 3rd millenium BC by the Hittites. Having been unable to break into the defensive walls of the city, Achaeans decided to set up a trick they offered a huge wooden horse as a gift to Trojans.
Although almost a century and a half passed since the days of Schliemann, Troy still hasn't been unearthed completely yet, and the excavation works still continue to this day.
Troy Museum
Four thousand years of history have been made more accessible to visitors with the opening of a high-tech museum at the archaeological site of Troy.
The 2000 artefacts on display include 24 delicate pieces of gold jewelry, dating to around 2400 BCE. The museum is exciting because it brings together the legendary city of antiquity and modern times.
Assos
The city of Assos on the Aegean coast of modern Turkey was founded by Ancient Greeks sometime around the 7th century BC. Perhaps the best known ancient site at Assos is the Temple of Athena, which is situated on the crest of a dormant volcano.
Gallipoli Peninsula
The World War I battle for control of the Dardanelles (Hellespoint) strait was fought mainly on Turkey's Gallipoli peninsula. Today, the Gallipoli battlefields are silent, preserved as a national park strewn with marble and bronze monuments.
The Culture & Events
Viticulture, An Old Heritage
Viticulture and wine making on the island has a heritage of 3000 years, reaching from the past of the island to the present. Almost half the island is covered with vineyards.
Bozcaada Cuisine
Thanks to a shared past of more than 500 years the interaction between the Rum and Turkish inhabitants has enriched Bozcaada's cuisine. Seafood, red meat, wild herbs, and olive oil are frequently used on the island.
The Island Architecture
The whole of Bozcaada is a natural and historical preservation site. The centre of the island has two neighborhoods, one of the Turks, the other of the Greeks.
A Land of Events!
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Last Weekend of June
Bozcaada Wine Tasting Days
The streets of the island, which smell of grapes and wine, are filled with a sweet excitement.
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26th July
Bozcaada Aya Paraskevi Days
A joyous atmosphere where cultures fuse with each other.
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First Weekend of August
The Day of the Poet and The Iliad Readings
The Iliad readings start with dawn in Troy, reading passes in various languages.
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September
Bozcaada International Taste Festival
Delicious Island and international food tasting in the Island square.