Cesme Castle — Attraction in Çeşme

The Çesme Castle, located in the coastal town of Çesme in Turkey, has a rich and fascinating history. Built in the early 16th century, the castle served as a strategic stronghold for various civilizations throughout the years.

Originally constructed by the Genoese in 1508, the Çesme Castle was strategically positioned to defend against enemy attacks and protect the region's coastline. It went through multiple renovations and additions over time, including improvements made by the Ottoman Empire.

During the 17th century, the castle played a significant role in the Ottoman-Venetian wars. It successfully defended against numerous attacks from the Venetian fleet and helped maintain Ottoman control over the Aegean Sea.

In addition to its military significance, the castle also had a significant commercial role. It served as a customs gate where merchants passing through the region had to pay taxes and present their goods for inspection.

Today, the Çesme Castle stands as an impressive historical landmark and museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its vibrant past. Inside, you can explore the castle's various sections, including the bastions, watchtowers, and underground chambers. The museum displays artifacts, weapons, and maritime objects, providing insight into the castle's military and trade history.

The castle's location also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and the picturesque town of Çesme. It remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who are eager to connect with this remarkable piece of history.

Overall, the Çesme Castle stands as both a symbol of past civilizations and a testament to the region's rich historical heritage. Its strategic significance, architectural splendor, and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and...

If you are arriving in Cesme by sea it will be one of the first and most memorable landmarks you will see. Or if you drive or walk to the seaside promenade in the town center of Cesme, you will see it rise up majestically beside you. It is Cesme's most special building, it has a history of over 500 years and it is also the building you will notice every time you venture into Cesme's center. The Cesme Castle and Museum is a piece of history that must be visited by every visitor to Cesme.

The Cesme Castle was ordered built in 1508 by the Ottoman ruler Beyazit II. The castle was built on the waterfront but because the sea has subsequently been filled there is currently a road passing in front of it. The edifice has recently undergone a successful renovation and you will witness a typical Ottoman castle. By climbing up the stairs on either side you will reach the top where you can view a 360 degree panoramic view of Cesme.

As you climb up, you will see two different courtyards where some historical artifacts and tombstones are exhibited. There are also two museums inside the castle; one of them has historical artifacts brought over from the nearby Ionian city of Erythrai (current day Ildir) and the other museum has relics from the three day naval war fought between the Ottomans and Russians.

The castle also plays host and serves as an interesting venue to summer concerts which are part of the annual...

Beware: Tourist Tax Trap!!! 6€ For Foreigners (260 Lira) and 100 Lira for Locals. I was a bit dismayed as the foreign price was not listed in the front of the castle ticket office. So it was misleading as I thought the entry price was 100 Lira. You could just by pass the line and enter for FREE though if you move to the left and go up the stairs. They were not monitoring the entry very well. So if you want to enter for FREE. Just veer left of the line and go up the steps. I regret not doing this as there was not much to see in the castle or the museum. As I left the castle, I passed the ticket office again (entry/exit is the same) and I passed my ticket on to another foreigner so they could have free entry; that way they didn’t fall for the same tourist tax trap that I had succumbed to.

PROS: the views, and some of the museum displays.

CONS: the hidden tourist tax price, the castle was not fully developed for tourism (plenty of areas blocked off to visitors and...