Gaziantep Castle

Its story

The hill on which the castle stands has been used as a lookout point since the Hittite period; the structure was turned into a castle in the Roman period, enlarged in the time of Emperor Justinian, and repaired in the Ayyubid and Ottoman periods. Its circular walls have a circumference of about 1,200 meters and carry 12 towers. The castle, which played an important role in the defense of Antep in the War of Independence, for many years housed a panorama museum telling the story of the defense. In the earthquakes of 6 February 2023, part of its eastern and southern towers collapsed; the restoration of about two and a half years carried out by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism was completed in 2025. It is explored on foot together with the Coppersmiths' Bazaar, the Zincirli Bedesten and the historic hans at its foot.

Period

Roman–Byzantine, Ayyubid and Ottoman repairs

Admission

May be paid (check the current status)

Getting there

Şahinbey, historic bazaar area; on foot from the center

Visit duration

1 hour

Trip purpose

• Photography
• Traveling with kids

Location

37.06648, 37.38322

Where to eat nearby

No food & drink venues listed nearby.

Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors; Overture Maps

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