The Top 10 Castles and Fortresses to Visit in Turkey
Turkey has a rich history, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting the country’s castles and fortresses. From towering structures to hidden gems, Turkey is home to a variety of castles and fortresses that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. Here are the top 10 castles and fortresses to visit in Turkey:
Bodrum Castle – Located in the coastal city of Bodrum, Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. Today, it serves as a museum and houses artifacts from the Ottoman Empire and the Crusader period.
Anavarza Castle – Located in the Adana province, Anavarza Castle dates back to the Roman period and was later used by the Byzantines and the Armenians. The castle is perched on a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Alanya Castle – Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alanya Castle was built in the 13th century by the Seljuks. The castle offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city of Alanya.
Rumeli Fortress – Located on the European side of Istanbul, Rumeli Fortress was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in preparation for the siege of Constantinople. The fortress is now a popular tourist attraction and hosts concerts and cultural events.
Kars Castle – Located in the city of Kars, Kars Castle dates back to the 12th century and was once an important fortress during the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia. The castle is now a museum and houses exhibits on the history of Kars.
Kaleici Castle – Located in the old city of Antalya, Kaleici Castle dates back to the Roman period and was later used by the Byzantines and the Ottomans. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Mardin Castle – Located in the city of Mardin, Mardin Castle dates back to the Roman period and was later used by the Byzantines, the Armenians, and the Turks. The castle offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Van Castle – Located in the city of Van, Van Castle dates back to the 9th century and was an important fortress during the Urartu Kingdom. The castle is now a museum and houses exhibits on the history of the region.
Uchisar Castle – Located in the Cappadocia region, Uchisar Castle was built into a natural rock formation and served as a fortress during the Byzantine period. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Kizkalesi Castle – Located on a small island off the coast of Mersin, Kizkalesi Castle was built by the Byzantines in the 12th century. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.
These are just a few of the many castles and fortresses to explore in Turkey. Whether you’re interested in Roman ruins or Ottoman history, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your camera and start exploring!
