The name Kuşadası means bird island ("kuş" = bird and "adasi" = island). You may be told that this is due to the fact that the bay's headland resembles a bird's head when seen from the sea. Personally, I don't get this. Perhaps this was once true, but it is difficult to see the resemblance today. I keep staring at maps and photos trying to imagine it.
Even more confusing is that the island (or islet) to the south of the town's harbour is actually called Güvercin Ada which means Dove Island. Bird Island, Dove Island - whatever. Well, at least it gives people something to discuss while sitting at one of the local fish restaurants.
And the island is technically not even an island. A causeway was built to it in the 19th century, as part of the refortifications during the Greek War of Independence, turning the islet effectively into a headland. This causeway is now a pretty solid structure, along which fishing and excursion boats moor and local anglers catch their evening meal.
The fortress on the island was built by the Genoese who established a trading settlement here, known as Scala Nuova, in the 13th century.
Today the island is part historical monument, part public park. The fortress houses a disco, a restaurant, several trees, a flower garden, some captive rabbits and innumerable pigeons and doves. You can swim here (although you may prefer one of the local beaches) and the views of the Ionian coast to the south, along Kuşadası's waterfront to the north and over to Samos in the west are quite beautiful. |
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