Gökçeada (District)

Gökçeada is the largest island of Türkiye and a district under Çanakkale Province. It is located in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea, at the entrance to the Saros Gulf. The island has an area of 279 km² and is home to İnce Burun (Avlaka Burnu), the westernmost point of Türkiye.

History

The oldest known name of Gökçeada is Imroz. The settlement established around Mount Imbrasos in antiquity came under the rule of various civilizations throughout its long history. The island first fell under Athenian and Persian control, then gained importance during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Conquered by the Ottoman Empire in the late 15th century, Gökçeada was administered as a neighborhood within the Gelibolu Sanjak. During the Ottoman period, the island was a settlement with a predominantly Greek population. Many churches, monasteries, and stone structures built during this era have survived to the present day.

After the proclamation of the Republic, Gökçeada was governed as a sub-district under Ezine District; it gained district status in 1959. In 1970, by a decision of the Council of Ministers, the island’s official name was changed to “Gökçeada”.

Geography and Natural Features

Gökçeada has a rugged terrain composed of volcanic rock. It is notable for its natural water sources, reservoirs, bays, and fertile soils. The bays along its coastline have been shaped by erosion and wave action. The surrounding area is rich in vegetation, and its natural ecosystem has been preserved. Natural formations such as Kefalos Beach, Aydıncık Salt Lake, and Marmaros Waterfall reflect the island’s geographical diversity.

Population and Settlements

In addition to the town center, Gökçeada has village settlements including Dereköy, Zeytinli, Kaleköy, Tepeköy, Şirinköy, and Uğurlu. Both Turkish and Greek-origin citizens live on the island. It is noted that since the 2000s, some Greek-origin families have returned to the island, and abandoned buildings have been restored and brought back into use.

Transportation

Access to the island is provided by sea and air. Regular car ferries operate from Kabatepe Port. Additionally, flights connecting to Istanbul operate seasonally during the summer months via Gökçeada Airport, which became operational in 2010.

Administrative Structure

Since 1959, Gökçeada has been administered as a district under Çanakkale Province. Local governance services are provided through the district municipality and sub-governorship. Public institutions are concentrated in the town center, and educational and health services are also available within the district.

Tourism

Gökçeada is one of Türkiye’s tourism centers. In 2011, it was awarded the “Cittaslow” (Slow City) designation and has since been recognized as a model settlement for sustainable tourism, organic agriculture, and natural ecological balance. Tourist numbers on the island typically increase during the summer months, with nature tourism, diving, camping, gastronomy, and cultural heritage tours being the main attractions.

In former Greek villages such as Zeytinli and Tepeköy, traditional cafés, stone houses, and historic churches can be found. Kaleköy stands out for its coastal location and remnants of ancient walls. Marmaros Waterfall and Aydıncık Salt Lake are part of nature walking routes. Furthermore, due to its rich underwater biodiversity, the island hosts businesses dedicated to diving tourism.