Katsuren Castle, Ryukyuan castle ruins in Uruma, Japan
Katsuren Castle is a Ryukyuan fortress ruin situated on a limestone hilltop 98 meters above sea level overlooking the Katsuren Peninsula. The grounds occupy a strategic location where the Pacific Ocean borders two sides of the surrounding terrain.
The fortress was established in the mid-15th century by Lord Amawari as a seat of power and ruled until 1458. Its defeat by the Ryukyu Kingdom army ended its role as an independent stronghold in the region.
The location takes its name from the Katsuren Peninsula and reflects its former role as a major trading hub where merchants from across Asia gathered. Walking through the grounds today, visitors sense how maritime commerce shaped the identity of this place.
The site is accessible throughout the year with walking paths leading through the ruins. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended as the terrain is uneven and the limestone hill features steep sections.
Excavations at this location uncovered unexpected artifacts including Chinese porcelain and ancient Roman coins that point to surprising trading contacts. These discoveries reveal that connections from this region extended far beyond East Asia and reached toward distant Mediterranean networks.
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