Zilkale, Medieval fortress in Fırtına Valley, Turkey
Zilkale is a medieval stone fortress perched on a rocky peak at 1,130 meters elevation, commanding views over the Fırtına River valley. The structure features multiple defensive walls, a central tower, and several levels that you can explore throughout the site.
The fortress was built between the 14th and 15th centuries as part of a broader defense network protecting trade routes through the Pontic Mountains. It served as a strategic stronghold in a region of great commercial importance.
The chapel within the fortress dates from the Empire of Trebizond period and shows a blend of different building styles that you can still see today. Walking through the structures, you notice how various architectural traditions were layered into this single site.
The fortress is located about 13 kilometers south of Çamlıhemşin and is accessible by road leading to a parking area where the climb to the site begins. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the path to the top is steep and passes over rocky terrain.
The name Zilkale combines the Turkish word 'zil' meaning bell with 'kale' meaning fortress, though some interpret it as 'zir-kale' from Persian meaning lower fortress. This linguistic ambiguity reflects the mixed cultural influences that shaped the region.
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