Hasankeyf Castle

Hasankeyf Castle, located along the banks of the Tigris River, is a unique structure that captivates with its historical and natural beauty. With a history dating back to ancient times, Hasankeyf has hosted various civilizations and has managed to carry this rich past into the present. Originally constructed by the Romans at a strategic location, the castle later came under the rule of several civilizations, including the Eastern Romans, Artuqids, Ayyubids, and Ottomans. Built on a monolithic rock mass at an average height of 93 meters from the Tigris River, Hasankeyf Castle commands a breathtaking view over the Tigris Valley and the surrounding landscape. Inside the citadel, rock-carved dwellings, cisterns, water channels, and various other structures offer visitors a journey back in time. The castle also served as a crucial defensive center due to its natural formation, providing control over the region. The panoramic view of the Tigris Valley from the castle captivates visitors. A unique stop for history and nature enthusiasts, Hasankeyf Castle is one of Türkiye’s most valuable cultural heritages, with its rich historical legacy and natural beauty. Visiting Hasankeyf Castle is not merely a visit to a historical structure but a chance to witness the deep past of Anatolia. The castle can be accessed via boat tours. The citadel, also referred to as the “upper town,” features walls and magnificent gates that harmonize with its natural structure, originally built in the 4th century CE due to its strategic importance. The remains of palaces for monarchs' families are visible at the highest points of the citadel, overlooking the entire area. To the east and southeast of the castle, numerous rock-carved houses and shops feature wells and cisterns in front of many. A notable aspect is the water transport system from the Ayyubid and Artuqid periods, with water directed to the castle through earthen pipes or rock-drilled holes. The entrance gate and the citadel walls, along with the outer castle, date back to the Roman Period. The original Grand Mosque and portions of the Great Castle exhibit Artuqid artifacts, enriching the city’s heritage. The Ayyubid Dynasty primarily shaped the present-day appearance of the Upper Town. The castle includes cultural assets such as the Grand Palace, the Small Palace, the Grand Mosque, and the Yusuf Ağa Mansion.