Overview:

Urfa Castle, or also known as Eski (old) Citadel, is one of the oldest and largest castles in Turkey. It is located in the heart of Sanliurfa in southeastern Turkey and is a part of a complex that includes many monuments, remains, and archaeological sites. It was built in 4000 BC and was initially made of clay and mud bricks by the Hurrians. The castle was further developed by various rulers of the area throughout its long history. Remains of intricate wall carvings from different times still can be seen on the walls of the castle. Restoration works have been done in modern times to provide more comfort to visitors and restore the many cultural and historical treasures of the past. Today, visitors can also find the oldest temples and mosques dating back from the 16th century, the remains of a royal palace, fountains, pools, and a large park within the complex. There are also some beautiful views of the mountains from the castle. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

1. Urfa Castle is an ancient citadel located in the city of Sanliurfa, located in the southeastern province of Şanlıurfa in Turkey. 2. The castle was constructed in pre-Islamic times by the Edomites and was rebuilt by the Romans in the 1st century A.D. 3. The castle is significant for its expansive surrounding walls, which stand to a height of 18m in some places. 4. It is positioned on a prominent hilltop overlooking the city of Urfa. 5. Inside the castle stand numerous stone and mud-brick buildings, the remains of a mosque and a number of other structures from various historic periods. 6. The castle is also of importance as the site of Abraham's residence, as noted in the Bible. 7. The Citadel also includes the Grand Mosque, the Haram-i Sharif Mosque and the Sheik Edebali Mosque. 8. On the grounds of the citadel, there are tombs of several religious figures, as well as the Burj el-Mossul tower from the Ottoman era. 9. Visitors are able to access the Citadel via a variety of stairs, lifts and landings. 10. The Citadel hosts occasional festivals and other events, with many visitors choosing to stay in the hotel located inside the castle. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

The history of the Urfa Castle in Sanliurfa, Turkey dates back to the 3rd century BC during the rule of the Assur Kings when the first earthwork fortifications were constructed. In 38 BC, the Roman empire annexed the region and the city flourished and richly prospered. The city walls were beginning to be build in this era. In the mid 6th century, the Byzantine Empire controlled the area and the castle saw its first major restorations. During this period, the fortress walls were raised and several castle towers were constructed. Urfa castle was a strategic point because it was a gateway to Edessa (Şanlıurfa) and Byzantine Mesopotamia and the area was the last stronghold against Persian rulers. In 1085, the Seljuk Empire invaded the region and the fortress was under its control until 1259 AD. During this period, the fortress was strengthened and made into a strong, impregnable construction. In 1259, the Ayyubid dynasty led by Sultan Al-Adil I captured Urfa and the city remained under his rule for 80 years. During this period, many mosques were constructed and massive restorations took place in the castle, including two walled palaces. The castle was taken by the Ilkhanate Empire in 1343 and various restorations were done under the reign of Abu Said. The castle walls became further strengthened and two additional towers were established. After these restorations, the Urfa Castle was generally peaceful until the Ottoman Empire conquered the city in 1517. The castle was restored during this time and served as an administrative and military fort for the Ottomans. In 1927, the castle was closed and used as an Agricultural Training Institute. The castle is now open to the public. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Urfa Castle is a 10th century fort located in the city of Sanliurfa, in southeastern Turkey. 2. The castle stands on a hill in the ancient part of the city, and is surrounded by a moat. 3. The walls of the castle are made of stones carved in the style of the Byzantine period, and the interior of the castle is decorated with archaeological finds from all over the world, including artifacts from the Roman, Assyrian, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. 4. Urfa Castle is home to several monuments, including the Prophet's Mosque, the Prophet's Pavilion and the Shrine of Şerafettin. 5. The castle also houses an archaeological museum, where artifacts from the city's history can be seen. 6. Urfa Castle is a popular tourist attraction in Sanliurfa, known for its breathtaking views of the city and its history. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era