Riva Castle, Medieval fortress in Beykoz, Turkey.
Riva Castle is a stone fortress positioned on rocky terrain where the Riva stream meets the Black Sea, featuring corner towers and defensive walls. The structure rises above the shoreline and creates a commanding presence over the water.
The fortress was captured by Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I following his conquest of the neighboring strongholds of Yoros and Şile in 1391. This takeover was part of a broader push to secure control over the Black Sea coast.
The site held mythological significance in ancient times as Ancyranum, a place linked to legendary maritime journeys. Today, visitors can sense this connection between ancient stories and the coastal landscape.
The fortress underwent restoration work in 2017 and remains closed to the public, with viewing limited to exterior views from Şht. Mehmet Ali Şener Street. From this public road, visitors can observe and photograph the structure from outside.
The structure blends elements from Byzantine and Genoese military architecture, reflecting how different powers shaped the design of fortifications in this region. This architectural mix reveals layers of influence from various periods.
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