Samsun Castle, Medieval fortification on Black Sea coast in Samsun, Turkey
Samsun Castle is a medieval fortification that once stood on the Black Sea coast with two mosques, residential quarters, market shops, and defensive walls. The structure occupied a significant area along the shoreline with multiple towers and protective barriers built to withstand both military attack and coastal weather.
The fortress was founded in 1092 by the Danishmends as a strategic stronghold after military campaigns in the region. It underwent major renovations during the Ottoman period, particularly in the early 20th century when fortifications were modernized.
Ottoman explorer Evliya Çelebi documented the castle's condition in his 1640 travelogue Seyahatname, noting both its military strength and deterioration.
The remains of the castle can be found near the Black Sea coast and are accessible from the shoreline area. Recent archaeological work has uncovered sections of the original walls, which are now protected and preserved for visitors to explore.
The castle featured five thousand steps of walls, seventy watchtowers, and two thousand battlements, with special reinforcements against Black Sea waves.
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