The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |
Located on the banks of the Kura River in northeastern Turkey, Ardahan Castle (Georgian: არტანის ციხე) stands as one of the most prominent medieval fortifications in the region.
1. When Was Ardahan Castle Built and Who Built It?
The exact construction date and builder of Ardahan Castle remain unknown. However, historical evidence confirms that the fortress was originally constructed by Georgians during the Middle Ages.
Historical Names: Prior to Ottoman rule, the castle and its surrounding settlement were known as Parakani (ფარაკანი). In the 1595 Ottoman tax register (Defter-i Mufassal-i Vilayet-i Gürcistan), it was recorded as "Rabat-i Kala-i Parakan".
Ottoman Conquest & Restoration: The Ottoman Empire captured the region in 1551. An Ottoman inscription on the fortress reveals that it underwent a major restoration in 1556 under Ottoman rule. During this period, an earlier Georgian church inside the complex was dismantled, and its stones were reused in the curtain walls. Georgian inscriptions written in the Hutsuri script remain visible on the walls today.
2. Where Is Ardahan Castle Located?
Ardahan Castle is situated in the heart of Ardahan city center, on the left bank of the Kura River, directly opposite the Halil Efendi district. Its central location makes it easily accessible on foot for visitors exploring the city.
Architectural Highlights
Construction: Built using rough-cut stones bound with traditional Horasan mortar. The corner towers feature larger, finely dressed ashlar blocks.
Dimensions: The internal layout stretches up to 268 meters east-to-west and spans between 119 and 170 meters north-to-south.
Topography: Built on sloped terrain, the elevation difference between the highest northern wall and the lower southern wall near the river reaches 35 to 37 meters.
