Manisa Castle, Medieval fort on Mount Sipil, Manisa, Turkey
Manisa Castle on Mount Sipil consists of two distinct sections: an inner fortress with seven towers and outer walls with multiple fortified positions. The inner area displays Byzantine construction techniques using stone and brick, while the extended outer walls formed a protective ring around the city.
The inner fortress was built in 1222 under Emperor Johannes III Doukas Vatatzes as a defensive stronghold. The outer walls were added later to strengthen protection against threats to the city during a period of frequent raids.
The mosque inside the fortress shows how different faiths coexisted within its walls during the regional dynasty period. The site reflects how fortifications served as both military strongholds and places of worship for the communities they protected.
The southern entrance provides access to the inner fortress, where you can examine the ancient walls and construction methods up close. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is steep and rocky, and the climb up and down requires physical effort.
The fortress is called Sandik Kale locally because its pentagonal shape resembles a chest when viewed from certain angles. This name is deeply rooted in local tradition and reflects how the unusual inner layout is observed from the surrounding landscape.
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