About Cunda
The ancient name of Cunda, Hekatonisos, is mentioned in manuscripts written by the historian Herodotus in the years B.C. as well Some of the historical buildings of the island include the Çamlı Monastery (Taxiarchis ta Tsamia), Moonlight Monastery, Monastery of the Protector Virgin Mary (Leka Monastery), the monasteries on the Pigeon and Chicken Islands, and the Taxiarchis Church. The island is recently enjoying growing in popularity, thanks to tourism. In the summer, thousands of tourists flock to the island to enjoy the beaches, sea, and the nature that instills peace in the onlooker.
Administratively part of Turkey's Balikesir district, Cunda Island has approximately 7000 inhabitants. It is also called Alibey Island, and is the only island in the Ayvalık Archipelago with human settlement. A typical Mediterranean climate predominates Cunda as it is located in the Aegean Sea: Summers are hot, winters mild and rainy. The island is also associated with occasional strong winds.
You can reach the island by flying first to the Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport, and then taking the last stretch by road. It is easily accessible from metropolises such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. It can also be reached by ferryboat.
