An Everlasting Treasure of Heritage in Kuşadası: Pigeon Island

A small yet significant island, stands as an iconic landmark, Pigeon Island is a legacy to Turkish maritime history. Being a home to a castle built by famous mariner of his era, Barbaros Hayrettin in the 16th century, this island merged with the coast in 60s. In the Ottoman era, the island witnessed several historic events and made its service to the empire as a forward base. Over centuries, the castle on the island has seen several important enhancements and currently the entrances to the castle are totally free to visitors.

Beside the castle, the island offers a view from a different perspective of Kuşadası, it is surrounded by serene waters of Aegean sea and arised from a beautiful landscape of its own. Looking back to the coast from the island provides a magnificent scenic route of historical background of the city, standing side by side with modern establishments and vibrant marine life underneath. Nowadays, the island serves as a cultural field, hosting many events including concerts and exhibitions and together with not only its historical heritage but also its natural beauty and its potential to panoramically show Kuşadası, make the island a top attraction for visitors.