Kefken Island
Imagine a lush, emerald island brimming with mystery, surrounded by blue waters. And this island is none other than the only inhabited island along Türkiye’s Black Sea coast. Located in the Kandıra district of Kocaeli, Kefken Adası awaits discovery like a hidden treasure, renowned for its natural beauty and thousands of years of history. Are you ready to uncover the secrets of this island?
The Green Nest in the Heart of the Black Sea
Kefken Adası is just an 8 to 10-minute boat ride from the mainland. Surrounded by shallow waters, it offers excellent visibility of marine life, where visitors can spot numerous fish, especially sea bass and mullet, swimming around its shores. The steep cliffs surrounding the island give it a formidable yet majestic appearance, reminiscent of a giant fortress.
Kefken Adası(Kültür Portalı)
What Is There on the Island?
When you visit the island today, you will be greeted by a large lighthouse, a bright beacon guiding ships through the night. Only coast guard personnel and one fishing family currently reside here. Thus, it is a quiet, peaceful place far removed from the noise of cities.
Kefken Adası (Kültür Portalı)
Traces of the Past: Fortresses and Wells
Kefken Adası has been home to many civilizations since ancient times. The Romans, Byzantines, and Genoese all regarded this small island as highly valuable. As you explore, you will encounter remnants of ancient walls and exactly 40 ancient water wells, whispering stories of the past. The Genoese once built sturdy fortresses here to protect their trade activities.
A Journey Through Time
Approximately 800 years ago, Genoese sailors used this island as a safe harbor during their trade voyages across the Black Sea. At that time, the island was known as “Finogonya” and was surrounded by high stone fortress walls.
