Giresun Island

[1] A black round stone about 4 meters diameter, called Hamza Taşı in Turkish, is located in the ruins of the temple.

[1] In the 1st century AD, the Romans erected a walled settlement with watch-towers as part of defending against pirate raids afflicting the dual-province of Pontus and Bithynia.

[1] Anthony Bryer, however, identifies this monastery as the one dedicated to Eleousa, where the Metropolitan Joseph had taken refuge, only to become the victim of marauding Turkish pirates in 1368.

[1] For a long time Giresun Island has been preserved as a Class II historical and natural site by the Turkish government.

Tourist visits to the island are possible on small and medium-sized fishing and cruise boats which can be provided by tourism agencies in Giresun.

While the dominant plants of Giresun are laurels (Laurus nobilis) and black locusts (Robinia pseudoacacia), it has been reported that the island has 71 wild and introduced species of trees and herbs.

Ancient Greek stories said the island was used by Amazons, the warrior women of legend, for fertility ceremonies centring on the temple (now in ruins).

[9] The navy troop called the Argonauts arrived on Aretias Island early in their quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece.