Tavşan Adası (Rabbit Island)

Amasra’s Small Island

On the northern side of the Amasra peninsula, just 150–200 metres from the shore, a small island rises from the sea: Tavşan Adası (Rabbit Island). Despite its small size, this island is historically and naturally significant, and forms an integral part of the Amasra panorama.

The Byzantine Remains on the Island

On the island once stood a church and monastery complex believed to date from the Byzantine period. The structures, left without maintenance during the Ottoman era, crumbled over time; floor mosaics and foundation stones were also removed and damaged by clandestine diggers.

Academic investigations have established that the central section of the church was designed on a cross plan. Given the island’s position and size, it is suggested that the structures beside the church formed a monastic complex.

Taken together with the Small Church Chapel, it becomes clear that Amasra was an important religious centre in the Byzantine period.

How to Reach the Island

Rock-cut steps running from the south-western slopes of the island to the summit were the only means of access. In good weather it is possible to reach the island by boat or kayak. When the sea is rough, access becomes difficult.

Viewpoint

From Tavşan Adası, the view back towards the Amasra peninsula and the Large Harbour offers a unique perspective impossible from the land side. This viewpoint is especially rewarding at sunset.