Alanya Castle (Citadel) – Where History Meets the Azure Mediterranean

Perched high above the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi) stands as a spectacular symbol of Alanya’s layered history, captivating architecture, and stunning panoramic views. Located in the heart of Alanya district in Antalya Province, this iconic hilltop fortress is among the most impressive and well-preserved castles in Türkiye, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and storytelling stonework that spans centuries.

A Fortress of Civilizations

Alanya Castle is not just a fortress; it’s a testament to the many civilizations that passed through this region. Originally built as a small fortress by the Byzantines in the 6th century, the structure was significantly expanded and fortified by the Seljuks in the 13th century under Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, who conquered the city in 1221. Most of the surviving architecture today, including the walls and towers, dates from the Seljuk period.

The castle’s 6.5-kilometer-long defensive wall encircles the peninsula and encloses around 140 towers and over 400 cisterns, once used to store water and food during sieges. Inside its walls, the citadel contains ancient houses, a mosque (Süleymaniye Mosque), a caravanserai, and the renowned Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), a separate fortification guarding the harbor.

A Breathtaking Vista

One of the biggest draws of Alanya Castle is its commanding view over the town and coastline. From the top, visitors are treated to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Alanya’s harbor, Cleopatra Beach to the west, and the Taurus Mountains in the distance. At sunset, the stone walls glow a warm ochre hue, offering a magical and unforgettable experience for photographers and romantics alike.

Walking up or driving along the winding road to the top is part of the experience. For those seeking a leisurely ascent, a cable car (Alanya Teleferik) connects the lower town to the castle, offering a scenic ride above lush pine forests and red-tiled rooftops.

Cultural Treasures Within the Walls

The castle complex is dotted with historical buildings and ruins, each with its own tale. Key highlights include:

• The Inner Fortress (Iç Kale): This is the most secure section of the castle and was once home to the Seljuk sultans. It includes the remains of the palace, cisterns, and the Süleymaniye Mosque.

• Red Tower (Kızıl Kule): This octagonal tower, standing at 33 meters, is an engineering marvel and today houses the Ethnographic Museum.

• Tersane (Shipyard): Built in 1228, it is the only Seljuk shipyard that has survived intact in Türkiye.

• Ehmedek Fortress: Located on the northern slope, this smaller fortress served as a garrison and storage area.

Visitors can explore these areas either independently or through guided tours that delve into the deep history, architecture, and legends of the region.

A Living Castle

Unlike many other historical sites, Alanya Castle isn’t merely a relic of the past — it’s a living environment. Local residents still inhabit the traditional Ottoman-style houses within the outer walls, and small cafés, art galleries, and handicraft shops dot the walkways. The gentle buzz of local life gives the castle a unique charm, blending everyday life with timeless history.

How to Get There

Alanya Castle is easily accessible from Alanya’s city center. You can hike, drive, take a taxi, or enjoy the scenic Alanya Teleferik cable car from Damlataş Beach. Local minibusses also run frequently to the top.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Alanya Castle is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasantly warm, and crowds are smaller. Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for photography and peaceful exploration.