The Princes’ Islands are such wonderful places that belong to İstanbul! Büyükada, the largest island, is the most visited and admired due to its proximity to the city. Taş Mektep (a.k.a Stone School), is a symbol of the island, a significant landmark for Istanbulites, especially for those living in Büyükada.

You can find historical pavilions nestled among pine trees, delightful streets, beaches five minutes away by bicycle, parks and hills with exquisite views, and islanders who have kept their culture alive in its most elegant form for years… Büyükada is a wonderful destination that offers a lot to visitors. Even though it may get over crowded due to tourist flow  during summer, Büyükada remains a favourite destination with its rich history and natural beauty.

Taş Mektep, located on Kadiyoran Street, is a beloved symbol of the island. It was built in the late 19th century by the Greek Orthodox Patriarch Sofronios. Since Patriarch Sofronios used it as a summer residence for a long time, the building is also known as Sofronios Pavilion.

In 1922, the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) bought the pavilion and renamed it Köprülü Mehmed Paşa Numune School, which became the first official Turkish school in Büyükada. Although the name of the school was known to the locals as Eski Mektep at the time, it was changed to Büyükada Primary School in 1925.

The school served the students of Büyükada as Büyükada Primary School until 1967 and then as Büyükada Middle School. In 1979, the school was evacuated due to a fire risk and has survived until today as one of the cultural assets to be protected. The pavilion, which has an important place in İstanbul’s urban heritage and memory in historical and cultural terms, was put under protection through restoration work carried out by İBB Heritage between 2021-2023.

The Spirit Has It

I don’t know if it’s the island’s weather or my admiration for old stone buildings and landscape architecture, but I am mesmerised as I walk through the garden of the house. As soon as I step inside the renovated stone pavilion, I feel a sense of openness. The bricks in the reception area and the lighting that makes these bricks seem like works of art immediately catch my attention. On the right side from the reception, you come to a library and a study area, lighted by the infinite beauty of the daylight coming through the huge windows. In the library, you can browse through 7,000 recent publications from leading publishers. The upper floor is used for exhibitions and events. Outside, cafes and rest areas invite you to take a breath, smell the air and enjoy the view.

It was already the centre of attraction of the island with its impressive atmosphere and unique view. After its restoration by IBB Heritage, it has been transformed into a new meeting place for cultural and artistic events. Now, the doors of Taş Mektep are open to everyone to add vibrancy to the social life of the city and especially the islands!

So, on your next Büyükada adventure, take a break from the usual tourist spots and explore Taş Mektep. Step back in time, immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and perhaps discover your next literary treasure among the towering bookshelves.