Gemiler Island

Gemiler - Saint Nicholas Island - is a small rocky island in the bay south of Fethiye, and it is unusual for how densely it was built on: five Byzantine churches, a bishop's palace, streets, cisterns, tombs and a covered processional way running up the spine of the island, dating largely from the fourth to sixth centuries. The scale suggests a significant pilgrimage centre. A long-standing tradition connects the island with Saint Nicholas of Myra - the fourth-century bishop who became Santa Claus - and one account holds that he was originally buried here before being moved to Myra; the evidence is circumstantial and scholars differ, which is worth saying plainly since the association is used heavily in local marketing. What is certain is the archaeology: mosaic fragments, wall painting traces, and the vaulted walkway climbing the hill. Boats stop here on Fethiye island-hopping trips and from Gemiler beach opposite.

The main sights

• The five churches - Byzantine ruins across the island.
• The processional way - the vaulted walkway up the spine.
• The mosaics - surviving floor and wall fragments.
• The summit view - the bay and coast from the top.

When to go

May to June and September to October. Mornings before the day boats arrive; sunset from the island is well known but requires a private boat.

What to expect

The Saint Nicholas burial claim is unproven and heavily marketed. The island is steep, rocky and unshaded, with rough paths among unstable ruins. Landing fee is separate from the boat fare.

Nearby

Ölüdeniz and Kayaköy are north; Butterfly Valley and Kabak are along the coast south.

Key facts