When we think of the Greek Islands, the first things that come to mind are blue-and-white houses, quiet coves, and the gentle breeze of the Aegean. However, many of these islands also remained under the Ottoman Empire's rule for centuries, bearing numerous cultural and architectural traces. Here's a route steeped in history that will follow the traces left by the Ottomans on the islands.

1. Rhodes Island: The Ottoman's Mediterranean Fortress

The Ottoman Empire conquered Rhodes in 1522, and the island remained under Ottoman rule until 1912. During this period, Rhodes was an important administrative and commercial center. Today, the following Ottoman-era structures can still be seen in Rhodes' old town:

  • Süleymaniye Mosque : It was built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.

  • Saatli Mosque (Saatli Madrasa) : It is located in the old city and has a remarkable clock tower.

  • Turkish Baths (New Bath) : These baths, dating back to the 16th century, are still open to visitors.

  • Tombs and fountains : Ottoman-era fountains and tombs can be seen on many streets in the city.

2. Lesvos: An Island Moulded with Ottoman Culture

Lesbos was an important sanjak center during the Ottoman period. Its legacy isn't limited to mosques and madrasas; it also bears the traces of cultural exchange. Places to visit in Lesbos, where a Turkish population has lived for a long time:

  • New Mosque : It is located in the center of Lesbos, right in the middle of the Turkish neighborhood.

  • Baths : Classical Ottoman baths, some of which have been restored.

  • Traditional Turkish houses : The influence of Turkish architecture can be seen throughout the island, especially in the villages of Kalloni and Polichnitos.

  • Turkish inscriptions : There are still Ottoman inscriptions at the entrances of some old public buildings.

3. Chios: Ottoman Heritage Across from the Fountain

Chios Island was one of the Ottoman Empire's most strategic points in the Aegean. Turkish influence left its mark on the architecture of the island, which remained under Ottoman rule from 1566 to 1912.

  • Ottoman Cemeteries : There are still well-maintained Ottoman cemeteries in the center of Chios and in some villages.

  • Mecidiye Mosque (Bayraklı Mosque) : The restored mosque attracts attention with its architecture, even though it is used for different purposes today.

  • Baths and fountains : It is possible to come across Ottoman-style stone fountains in many historical villages.

4. Kos (Istanköy): The Ottoman Living in Architecture and Language

Kos Island came under Ottoman rule in 1523. Today, traces of the Ottoman period are evident in Kos city center, especially in the port area:

  • Defterdar Mosque : It is located in the city center and its surroundings are surrounded by buildings in accordance with Ottoman architecture.

  • Gazi Hasan Pasha Mosque and Library : The restored buildings show the cultural influence of the Ottoman Empire.

  • Courtyard house architecture : Some houses from the Ottoman period are still used as private properties.

5. Patmos and Leros: Silent Traces

These two islands were considered smaller but important Ottoman outposts in the Aegean. While there are no grand mosques or castles, administrative buildings, port structures, and some Ottoman-era village names are enough to preserve these traces.

  • Ottoman customs buildings : Traces of Ottoman buildings can be seen, especially in the coastal areas of Patmos.

  • Old port stone building textures : Traces of stone architecture from the Ottoman period are still standing.

6. Simi and Meis: Cultural Blends

Simi and Meis were islands where trade was intense during the Ottoman period. Besides mosques, traces of commercial structures such as inns and covered bazaars can be found on these two islands.

  • Meis Mosque : Although not used today, the building is still standing.

  • Ottoman School in Simi : Restored, currently used for different functions.

  • Trade Inns : The Ottoman-era trade inns in Simi Port attract attention with their stone architecture.

How to Get to the Islands?

For those who want to explore these Ottoman traces, getting to the Greek Islands from Türkiye is quite easy. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Bodrum – Kos (Istanköy) : Daily crossings can be made with 30-45 minute ferry services.

  • Çeşme – Chios : It is possible to reach the destination with a journey of approximately 30 minutes.

  • Ayvalık – Midilli (Lesvos) : There are regular ferry services every day.

  • Marmaris – Rhodes : You are in Rhodes in 45 minutes with high-speed ferries.

  • Kaş – Meis : The crossing to Meis, the closest island to Turkey, takes only 20 minutes.

These islands also require visa-on-arrival for Turkish citizens. Schengen visa holders are offered faster transit.

A History Hidden in the Shadow of the Aegean

The Greek Islands offer not only a vacation but also a journey steeped in history. These Ottoman legacy demonstrate that the islands are not only a shared legacy of the Aegean but also of history. If you're looking for a combination of sea, history, and cultural exploration, you should definitely add these destinations to your itinerary.