Tortum Castle

Tortum Castle, locally known as Tortum Kalesi, lies on a rocky ridge next to the village of Tortumkale, in the province of Erzurum in Turkey.

When exactly Tortum Castle was built, is unknown. The present castle is said to have been built by a Georgian king and was named Mameroz or Mamerol. It probably incorporated an earlier fortress.

In 1282 the castle was taken by the Seljuk Turks, only to be swiftly reconquered by the Georgians. After a week, however, the Georgians were again defeated. From then on, Tortum Castle remained in Turkish possession.

During its existence it was modified several times by its rulers; Iranians, Byzantines, Georgians and Ilkhanid, Ak Koyunlu and Ottoman Turks.

This is all the historical info I was able to find about Tortum Castle. If you know more, please mail me.

Tortum lies on a ridge in the midst of a valley. Its northern facade is the best preserved. In the facade of its western tower, you can see the peculiar horizontal wooden beams, inserted between the stonework. I have no idea of their function. I only came across something similar in Peterek Castle. Below the castle are ruins of buildings, probably baths.

Tortum Castle is freely accessible, although entering means you will have to climb a steep slope of loose gravel. A great castle.

Gallery