Alanya Castle

Situated regally atop a high peninsula, Alanya castle offers a walk through the history of Turkey itself. In sharp contrast to the modern city centre, these highly fortified walls enclose the remnants of the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman dynasties. One can climb to the top floor of the Red tower to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean views, complete with lush vegetation surrounding the area. It can be reached by Alanya cable car.

A renowned pirate hideout, the castle was taken over by the Romans, who fortified its defences. After that, it belonged to the Byzantine empire, which made it a bustling trade port across the Mediterranean. They also erected churches and monasteries. This was followed by the Seljuk rule, which further strengthened protection, and also built the Red tower and the shipyard. These landmarks still stand tall today. After a short rule by the Cypruses, the Ottomans took over, building establishments one can see all along the six-kilometre wall. These include old houses with red roofs and the Suleymaniye Mosque. The inner fortress (Ic Kale) is not to be missed, housing many of the Byzantine and Seljuk ruins.