Queli Castle, Medieval fortress in Posof, Turkey
Queli Castle is a medieval fortress on a mountain in Posof, with stone walls and high vantage points overlooking the surrounding land. The ruins sit on the Arsiani range and once controlled movement through the region.
The fortress first appeared in Georgian sources in the early 10th century and was a key stronghold of Samtskhe province for centuries. It remained important until Ottoman forces took control of the region.
The name comes from Georgian and means 'cheese fortress', reflecting the Greek term Tyrokastron recorded in historical writings. This layered naming shows how different peoples shaped the region's identity over time.
The ruins can be reached from the village of Kolköy in Posof district, though mountain terrain requires good preparation for the hike. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and extra time to handle the steep approach.
During a 28-day siege in the 10th century, Georgian commander Gobron refused to convert to Islam and was executed here. This act of resistance became central to how locals remember the place.
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