Çandarlı Castle, Medieval fortress in Dikili, Turkey.
Çandarlı Castle is a fortress on a small peninsula with solid stone walls and defensive structures extending toward the Aegean Sea. The structure contains multiple interconnected sections with towers, walls, and bastions that visitors can walk through today.
The castle was originally built in the 2nd century BC and underwent major renovations by the Genoese in the 14th century and by Ottoman Grand Vizier Halil Pasha. After centuries of use and decline, it was extensively restored and opened for public access.
The fortress displays layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Genoese, and Ottoman building styles visible in its walls and construction methods. These different architectural approaches reflect how various peoples shaped this location across different periods.
The site is accessible after extensive restoration and allows visitors to explore different sections of the ruins. Wear sturdy footwear as paths cross uneven terrain and stone structures.
The walls contain stone blocks dating from the 2nd century BC, making it one of the oldest standing military structures in the Aegean region. Walking through the fortress, visitors can touch these ancient building stones and feel the weight of their long history.
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