Principality of Theodoro). After this year, human occupation of Giresun Island appears to have ended on orders of the Ottoman Empire who prohibited foreign trade, thus reducing the commercial sea traffic that had made the island relevant to commerce and naval defense. For a long time Giresun Island has been preserved as a Class II historical and natural site by the Turkish government. Thus it is not allowed to be used as a residential area. 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. Geography and habitat Giresun Island has approximately 40000 m² land area. Like much of Giresun Province the island receives considerable precipitation and it is hot and humid in the summer. Its coast is mostly rocky and steep. There are two natural bays found to the north-east and south-east, the latter being an adequate harbour for small boats. Visitors can walk from this harbour up into the interior of the island. 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. It is also a wild habitat for cormorants (Phalacrocoracidae sp.) and seagulls (Laridae sp.). In legend, literature, and film 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). For this reason, the Giresun Island is also called Amazon Adası ("Amazon Island" or "Island of the Amazons"). The contemporary Turkish film Off Karadeniz alludes to the cultural legacy of the Amazons in relation to the island and the region. Giresun Island, identified by the alternative name Aretias Island, is a setting for a portion of The Argonautica by Apollonius Rhodius. The tale of the Argonauts and the Golden Fleece is linked to the island. The navy troop called the Argonauts arrived on Aretias Island early in their quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece. Fierce birds using arrow-like feathers fought against the troops but were frightened away with the sound of swords clanging on shields. On the island, the Argonauts enlisted the help of four shipwrecked sailors who warned them of dangers in the Caucasus that might doom their quest. A legend of King Mithridates VI of Pontus takes place on Giresun Island. The King