Sarlitza Palace: The Forgotten Thermal Palace of Lesbos

On the coast of Thermi in Lesbos Island, there stands a large structure silently under the salty winds: Sarlitza Palace. Known in Ottoman documents as “Sarılıca Palace” and referred to by Greeks as “Σάρλιτζα Παλλάς”, this thermal building is not just a structure; it is a frozen page of Aegean history.

1909: The Ottoman Dream of a Modern Thermal Palace

Sarlitza Palace was built in 1909 as part of the Ottoman Empire’s modernization efforts.

Designed by French architects, the aim was to combine the luxury of European thermal hotels with the Eastern bath culture.

According to rumors, pashas, doctors, European guests, and even palace advisors stayed at this facility. At that time, Sarlitza was one of the most prestigious thermal centers in the Aegean.

The Natural Hot Springs of Thermi

At the center of Sarlitza Palace, there is a saltwater and mineral-laden spring that emerges from the ground at approximately 49°C.

This spring, located on volcanic fault lines, is known to be a natural healing source beneficial for:

• Rheumatic diseases
• Nervous system disorders
• Skin problems
• General stress and fatigue

Additionally, there are remnants of the ancient Temple of Artemis Thermia in the Thermi area, which has been a center of thermal usage for thousands of years.

From Grandeur to Abandonment

Sarlitza Palace closed its doors in 1982.

Although it was declared a “historical heritage” in 1987, due to neglect and bureaucratic issues, the structure quickly deteriorated.

Today:

• The roofs have collapsed,
• The halls are empty,
• The walls have eroded by the sea winds,

yet it still has an impressive appearance. For years, the local people have referred to this building as the “haunted palace,” while the elders still say, “the water of Sarliça heals.”

Will Sarlitza be Revived After 2025?

In recent years, the Northern Aegean Region administration has prepared a comprehensive restoration plan for Sarlitza. The projects include:

• A thermal hotel and spa
• Cultural event and exhibition spaces
• A museum section

The total budget for the prepared project designs has exceeded €850,000.

However, restoration works have yet to begin. Sarlitza is still waiting for its moment to be reborn.

Why You Should See It?

Sarlitza Palace is one of the most special historical sites to be seen in Lesbos.

For a traveler, this structure is not just a ruin; it is a silent witness to the shared history of Turkey and Greece.

• A thermal palace from the Ottoman period
• A rare structure that has survived in Greece
• An architecturally impressive heritage
• An atmosphere that offers unique photographs for photographers

Seeing Sarlitza while walking along the Thermi coast can make you feel like time has stopped.

Visitor Information

Location: Thermi, Lesbos Island – 11 km from Mytilene center

Transport: Can be reached by taking a ferry from Dikili to Lesbos and then about a 20-minute drive.

Status: The structure is closed to visitors and can only be seen from the outside. The thermal area is not open to the public.

Discover the Story of Sarliça with GÜVENTUR On-Site

GÜVENTUR tours to Lesbos include the Thermi area as an optional stop.

During this visit, there is an opportunity to learn about the history of Sarlitza Palace, the thermal culture of the region, and the stories passed down through time on-site.

Perhaps we will be among the first guests when the restoration begins.

WILL SARLICA PALACE COME BACK TO LIFE?