Kemah Castle

Kemah Castle is a fortification built on a rocky plateau in northwestern Kemah with tall walls and multiple stone structures. The fortress spans a large area and includes defensive walls plus an adjacent mosque and other historical buildings.

The fortress was founded in ancient times and experienced major changes during the Safavid and Ottoman periods. A decisive event was the siege of Kemah in 1515, when control of the site shifted hands.

The mosque adjacent to the fortress was uncovered through excavation and displays craftsmanship from its period of use. The travel writer Evliya Celebi documented this location in his writings, bringing it to the attention of later generations.

The site is accessible via well-maintained roads and offers a straightforward visit. Adjacent structures are undergoing restoration work, which visitors should keep in mind when planning their time there.

The site contains the tomb of Sultan Melik, an octagonal structure from an early period with significant graves inside. This location remains less known today and is often overlooked, though it reveals important information about the local ruling family.

Location: Kemah

GPS coordinates: 39.60333,39.03917

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:21