Çandarlı Castle stands beside the sea in Çandarlı, a village in İzmir’s Dikili district. Genoese traders built it in the 13th century, and the Ottomans later reinforced it. The stone towers and outer walls are the main sights; the interior is mostly open space and is often closed to visitors. Walk around the exterior for different views of the fortress and the coast, or pause at its elevated vantage point for a look over the surrounding area. Entry is free when access is available.
Genoese origins and Ottoman repairs
Çandarlı Castle was built by Genoese traders in the 13th century. It was later reinforced by the Ottomans. Its position on a peninsula beside the sea placed the fortress close to the port it was built to protect from pirates.
The stone structure has five towers and thick, crenellated walls. The towers and outer walls give the clearest sense of the castle’s defensive design.
What you can see
The interior is mostly open space, and access is often closed. When you can enter, walks along the walls are possible. From the elevated position, you can look over the surrounding area and the coast.
If the gates are closed, you can still view the castle from outside and walk along its walls. The sea-side setting also makes the exterior a natural spot for photographs.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can you go inside Çandarlı Castle?
The castle is often closed to entry. When access is available, walks along the walls are possible.
Is there an entry fee for Çandarlı Castle?
Entry is free when access is available.
What can you see at Çandarlı Castle?
The castle has five towers and thick, crenellated stone walls. Its elevated position gives views over the surrounding area and coast.
Can you enter the castle at night?
No. Nighttime entry is not possible.
