Erzurum Castle

Erzurum Castle, whose origins are believed to date back approximately 2,500 years to the Urartian period, was later expanded with an inner citadel constructed in 415 CE by Emperor Theodosius of the Eastern Roman Empire. The castle is divided into two parts: an inner citadel, where guard soldiers ensured the city’s security, and an outer citadel, which encompassed residential areas with streets and neighborhoods. During the Ottoman period, additional structures were built in the inner citadel, including the İç Kale Masjid, Kırklar Tomb, Ebu İshak-ı Kâzerûnî Tomb, and Ali Ağa Fountain. Although much of the outer walls of the castle have been lost over time, the names of its gates remain known: Tebriz Gate, Erzincan Gate, Georgian Gate, later added Istanbul Gate, and Yeni Gate. Throughout its history, the castle has undergone several repairs, notably during the reigns of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century and Sultan Mahmud II in the 19th century. Archaeological excavations since 2000 have revealed historical ruins, ceramics, and small artifacts, offering panoramic views of Erzurum to visitors.