Gemiler Island is located off the coast of Oludeniz, near Fethiye and contains the remains of several churches and buildings, built between the 4th and 6th centuries AD.
Archaeologists also believe it to be the original location of the tomb of Nicholas of Myra, otherwise known as Saint Nicholas. He is now laid to rest at St Nicholas Church in Myra.
The traditional Turkish name for the island is Gemiler Adası, meaning “Island of Boats”. This is thought to be a reference to St. Nicholas’s role as the patron saint of sailors. The island is also often referred to as St. Nicholas Island.
The island holds the Byzantine ruins of 5 churches, around 40 buildings and over 50 tombs. It is a popular stop for gulets and boat day-trippers, and the ruins can also be clearly seen from the sea. On the opposite side of the bay is a sandy beach, with a restaurant, where you can stop, relax and grab a drink.
There is a small fee to enter the island and explore the building, mosaics and frescoes. However, on reaching the summit, you will find dazzling 360 views, which will make it worth every penny.
