Kayseri Castle — Attraction in Melikgazi

Kayseri Castle, located right in the heart of the city, is one of the most iconic landmarks in central Türkiye. Steeped in centuries of history, this impressive fortress has witnessed the rise and fall of great civilizations — from the Roman Empire to the Seljuks, the Ottomans, and into modern-day Turkey. Its thick, well-preserved stone walls and sturdy towers stand as silent storytellers of the countless events that have shaped the region.

Walking through the gates of the castle feels almost like stepping into another era. Each section reveals a different layer of history, visible in the architectural details, construction styles, and even the materials used. You can almost imagine the bustling life that once filled its courtyards — merchants, soldiers, and townsfolk going about their daily routines.

Inside the castle, history blends beautifully with modern-day charm. Nestled among the ancient structures are cozy cafés and charming restaurants, perfect for taking a break, sipping a cup of Turkish coffee, and soaking in the atmosphere. Whether you’re there to explore its rich heritage, capture stunning photographs, or simply relax in a unique setting, Kayseri Castle offers an unforgettable experience. It’s more than just a historical site — it’s a living connection to Turkey’s past...

Kayseri castle, the way I remember back in the days when I was going to middle school at the American school for boys in Talas, some 10 kilometers from Kayseri, was a terrible place that I was afraid to enter. It was a forgotten and neglected site, and badly needed restoration. Dilapidated, vendors selling all kinds of stuff for which I had no need, muddy and wet during the winter and full of patrons which I had no association. These days, it has cleaned up its act, housing a museum in the basement, architecturally well thought out, with a vendor street, narrow and medieval-ish mystical, with not much of a business going, whereas the cafes and even a few restaurants are having a brisk business with some ear-popping Turkish rap music blasting to the youngish clientele. It took a short walk through the inner castle compound to tolerate the music and we found refuge in a small hall with some calligraphy exhibit done by the local adult school center. Skip it unless you want to enter the museum, which we did not peruse because it was...

First mentioned in AD 3th century during the reign of Emperor Gordian III, it is one of the oldest well-preserved castles in Anatolia. The castle went through multiple additions and reparations by the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuqs, Danishmends, Dulkadirs, Karamanids and Ottomans. In and around the remaining walls there are cafes, bookstores and souvenir markets. The transportation is very easy as most of the public busses in Kayseri pass through the Cumhuriyet Square, which is located next to the castle. Near the castle are several historical mosques and monuments including 13th century Hunat Hatun Mosque and 12th century Camikebir...