ALANYA CASTLE
And Its Impressive History
By Slowtravelguide
Don’t expect Alanya Castle to be a castle of 13 in a dozen. This fortress is an oasis of lush gardens overlooking the sea, Ottoman-era houses and amazing historical remains.
Trust us, this historic heart of Alanya is not classified as “just another ancient site or castle”; Alanya Castle is attractive to the eye and a wonderful day out for all types of visitors.
There is no other way to describe a place where people have lived since the middle ages, where natural beauty, picturesque streets and buildings dating back to the middle ages, combined with a swim in the sea in the shadow of an old shipyard.
If you’re still not convinced, read on to see what else Alanya Castle has to offer.
Old And New In A Single Frame
History Of Alanya Castle
When visiting the castle, you will be delighted by the many information panels that explain the history of Alanya Castle and its monuments.
There not much documentation on the early existence of Alanya. Research indicates that the area’s history dates back to the Upper Palaeolithic Period.
First, it was known as Korakesium, Alanya was named Kalonoros in the Byzantine Era, to be renamed Alaiyye after being conquered by the Seljuks led by Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I in the 13th century.
Finally, it was Atatürk who gave Alanya his current name during his visit to the city in 1935.
One Of The Gates Of Alanya Castle
After the Seljuks took Alanya from the Christians in 1221, Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I built a palace. Alanya became the second capital after Konya and the winter residence of the sultan. Later there were Mongol and Mamluk invasions from Egypt, and the Seljuk administration collapsed.
Ruled by the Karamanid dynasty in 1300, the Mamluks who bought it for 5,000 gold coins came under Ottoman rule in 1471.
Alanya was added to the administrative government of the Ottoman province of Cyprus a Century later, only to become a sub-province of Konya in 1864 again. Later, in 1868, it joined Antalya and gained its status as a sub-province. -Antalya province in 1871.
It was not until the 19th century that private houses were built on the peninsula of Alanya Castle.
(Part Of The Over 6km Of Fortification Walls)
Today, Alanya Castle is a major tourist attraction of exceptional beauty. Many of the structures are restored.
Within the 6 km long fortification walls, the entire area is a series of old houses, hidden tea gardens, fascinating sea views, intriguing ruins and modern-day tourist facilities, restaurants, shops, and cafes.
Beautiful Alanya Castle
Landmarks Of Alanya Castle
We’ve highlighted some of Alanya Castle’s landmarks below to help you choose the ones that appeal to you the most.
What To Expect
How To Get There: Private, rental car (check the map below) or public transport.
Nearest Airport: Alanya Airport.
Parking: Yes.
Terrain: Medium.
Stroller: No.
Income: Free except for the Kızılkule, shipyard and inner castle (museumpass is available).
Facilities: Yes.
Best Time To Visit: All year, depending on the weather.
Kızılkule – The Red Tower
Hard to miss it; the Red Tower of Alanya Castle or Kızılkule in Turkish. Built as a watchtower in 1226, this octagonal tower is 33 meters high and 29 meters in diameter.
The interior of the Red Tower consists of five levels, and the top two are open terraces that offer spectacular views.
Kızılkule
It owes its name to the red bricks that were used during construction. Kızılkule could hold up to 2,000 people, continuously guarded by 40 guards and their commander.
Inscriptions on the north and south facades of the tower mention its architect, Ebu Ali of Aleppo, and the sultan who had it built, Alaeddin Keykubad I. Kızılkule, was restored between 1951 and 1953.
Looking Back Towards The Red Tower
Tersane – The Shipyard
The Seljuk-era shipyard has five vaulted piers built with ashlar walls and brick vaults. The Shipyard or Tersane in Turkish was used to build and repair ships and as storage for ships.
The Navy permanently supervised the shipyard to protect it from enemy invasions or pirate attacks. It is interesting to know that the Alanya Castle Shipyard was in use until 1960, after which it was converted into a museum.
Inner Castle
The inner fort of Alanya Castle is located at the top of the peninsula, surrounded by fortifications. Archaeological research shows that the inner city castle has been in use since the 3rd century BC, but the architecture and structure have evolved.
The early church was demolished in the 10th century and replaced by a cemetery. A newer church was built around the 12th century, using structural elements from the previous building. Today, many important buildings in Neiburg can be traced back to the Seljuk period. The cistern, the vaulted gallery, and the palace of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, to name a few.
Church Of St. George In The Inner Castle
The history of St. George’s Church can be traced back to the Byzantine period, and traces of frescoes remain on the dome and other elements of the church. The clover plan with a central dome complements the abscissa belonging to the early church.
The Impressive Fortification Walls Of Alanya Castle Count 140 Watchtowers
Places Nearby
Syedra, a spectacular viewpoint and an ancient site near Alanya (17 km)
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Practical Information
Most areas of Alanya Castle are free to enter, but you need to purchase tickets to enter Kızılkule, the shipyard and the Inner castle. The opening hours are different in winter and summer.
The Alanya Castle can be easily reached by car or public transportation. The road to the inner castle is well-signposted. If you travel by bus, you can take line 4. Of course, you can also walk to the castle, but this may seem like a virtual suicide attempt, especially in midsummer.
We prefer to go up by bus and walk back again. You will notice that walking down provides many opportunities to stop and admire the view. Also, try to visit the lighthouse that has stood proudly there since 1720. It is closed during our visit, but we guarantee it is worth it, especially if you have a soft spot for lighthouses, just like us!
Bring plenty of sunscreen and swimming equipment, and swim in the sea in the shadow of the iconic Red Tower and the shipyard to end the day. This is the perfect end of a perfect day exploring the Alanya Castle: sea, sun, beach and history. (Yes, you can also participate in wine, food and shopping!) Or, better yet, stay in one of the carefully restored authentic houses in the castle to enhance your experience of Alanya Castle.
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Anavarza Castle
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