The Magnificent Historical Heritage of the Mediterranean is here in Alanya

Rising on a rocky peninsula embraced by the deep blue Mediterranean, Alanya Castle takes its visitors on a journey through time. Located 250 meters above sea level and included in the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List, this magnificent structure is not just a castle, but a true open-air museum with the structures it contains. One of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Mediterranean, Alanya Castle will fascinate you with its ramparts, bastions and 6.5 kilometers of impressive walls.

It is unthinkable to return without visiting this magnificent historical heritage while you are in Alanya. So, are you ready to discover this magnificent castle?

A Thousand-Year-Old History: In the Footsteps of the Seljuks
The history of Alanya Castle actually dates back to the Roman and Byzantine periods, but it gained its current appearance during the Seljuk period. The castle underwent a magnificent transformation, especially after it was conquered by the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad I in 1221.

Sultan Keykubad transformed the castle into a palace complex where he spent the winter months and named it "Alaiye". This name eventually turned into "Alanya". The castle, one of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk architecture, reached its current magnificence with the walls, bastions and structures built during this period.

Ottoman Period and After
The castle, which came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, maintained its strategic importance. The structure, which underwent various repairs during the Ottoman period, continued to be used for military purposes until the 19th century. The castle, which was opened to tourism during the Republican period, is one of the most important symbols of Alanya today.

İçkale and Ehmedek
İçkale, located at the highest point of the castle, was designed as the safest area of ​​the castle complex. Here are the palace ruins, cisterns and military structures from the Seljuk period. Ehmedek is the area that provides access to İçkale and is used for administrative and defensive purposes.

Walls and Bastions
The 6,5 kilometer walls surrounding Alanya Castle are one of the most impressive examples of Seljuk military architecture. These walls, which have 140 bastions, constitute one of the most advanced defense systems of the period. The bastions, built with red bricks and cut stones, create magnificent photo frames when combined with the Mediterranean view.

Historical Structures
There are important structures such as Süleymaniye Mosque, Akşebe Sultan Tomb and Bedesten inside the castle. Süleymaniye Mosque, built in the 16th century, is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. Akşebe Sultan Tomb was built during the Seljuk period and is an important place to visit.

We recommend that you spend a few hours in Alanya Castle. You can visit the historical structures inside the castle, photograph the magnificent view or take a break at the cafes inside the castle. The view of Alanya from the castle, especially during sunset hours, offers a unique beauty. And we definitely recommend that you join a guided tour or read the information boards while walking inside the castle. This way, you can better understand the story of this historical place.

Panoramic Views: Photographers' Paradise
Alanya Castle is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. You can capture the city, the Taurus Mountains and the deep blue Mediterranean in the same frame from various points of the castle. Especially the sunrise from İçkale or the sunset views from the Red Tower offer the opportunity to capture unforgettable frames.

While walking inside the castle, you will witness the unique view of the peninsula surrounded by the sea on three sides. The points where you can see the entire city and Cleopatra Beach from a bird's eye view will allow you to take your most beautiful social media photos.

These structures have an important place among the historical treasures of Alanya and they are all within walking distance of each other. You can discover all these historical riches of Alanya by making a one-day program.