Zilkale , please .

The castle, Located in the charming district of Rize, Çamlıhemşin, is a medieval castle that takes you on a journey through history in the Storm River Valley. 14 or 15. This castle, which is believed to have been built in the 15th century, consists of three parts: the outer walls, the middle walls and the inner castle. This castle, which is believed to have been built in the 11th century, consists of three parts: the outer walls, the middle walls and the inner castle. Eight constellations and a lookout tower accompany us to observe the view surrounding the castle. This historical structure, used by different civilizations such as the Empire of Trabzon, the Genoese, the Greeks and the Ottomans, bears the traces of the past to the present day. Zilkale is considered a Grade 1 archaeological site and has been restored to its former glory with restorations carried out between 2008 and 2010. It is considered an archaeological site and has been restored to its former glory with restorations carried out between 2008 and 2010. In the beautiful nature of the district of Çamlıhemşin, you can embark on an unforgettable journey of 15 km from the district center to reach Zilkale, which is hidden in the foothills of the Kaçkar Mountains.

Zilkale: History and Scenery in the Arms of Nature

Zilkale is a historic castle located in the Storm River Valley in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize. The exact date of construction is unknown, but it is 14 or 15. It's estimated to have been made in the 15th century. It's estimated to have been made in the 19th century. The structure, originally called "Zir Kale", is popularly known as "Zil Kale". Zilkale, which adds a different dimension to the historical and natural beauty of Rize, enchants its visitors with its stunning scenery and historical texture.

Location and View: Zilkale is located on Mount Avup, 12 km south of Çamlıhemşin district. The castle, located 750 meters above sea level, is located on the western slopes of the Storm River valley. Thanks to this position, it has an impressive view. The sea, the creek bed and the surrounding natural beauty provide a magnificent setting for the castle.

History and construction: Although the date of construction of Zilkale is not known with certainty, it is estimated that it was built during the period of the Empire of Trabzon or by local nobles. Even though it is described in the work History and Geography of the Black Sea Coast, it is not possible to establish the exact date. Used by different civilizations until the end of the 1800s, the castle was built for defensive purposes.

Structure and properties: The structure of Zilkale consists of three parts: the outer walls, the middle walls and the inner castle. The gate of the outer walls is reached by the path in the northwest direction. A terrace is used to reach the central walls and from there to the inner castle. Inside the inner castle there are important structures: the guard building, the chapel and the main tower. It is understood that the tower had four floors, but the internal structure is thought to have disappeared over time.

Restoration and tourist attraction: Zilkale was restored between 2008 and 2010 and has become a tourist attraction. The castle, which was opened to visitors after the restoration, has also hosted events such as events and concerts organized by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

Meeting of Nature and History: Zilkale offers a unique blend of nature and history. The magnificent view of the sea and nature, combined with the historical texture, gives visitors an unforgettable experience. This historic structure, intertwined with the mystical atmosphere of the Black Sea, stands out as one of the highlights of Rize.

A tourist stop: As a result, Zilkale is an important tourist stop that welcomes history and nature lovers in the stunning valley of Çamlıhemşin. It is an ideal spot for those who want to take nature walks, observe the landscape, explore history and capture unique photo frames. With its historical structure and fascinating landscape, Zilkale offers visitors unforgettable moments as part of the rich cultural heritage of the Black Sea region.

Where's the castle?

Where 's Zilkale ? Zilkale is located in Rize Province, Turkey. More specifically, it is located in the Storm River Valley, which belongs to the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize province. This location is located at the foot of the Kaçkar Mountains, one of the unique natural beauties of the Black Sea Region. To reach Zilkale, you must go from the provincial center of Rize to the county center of Çamlıhemşin and follow the road from the county center to the castle.

Rize travel plans and ... What about Rize? You can review our itinerary if you want. Places to visit in Rize You can create your own itinerary on our page.

How to Get to Zilkale?

How do you get to Zilkale? Zilkale, 14 or 15. or as a medieval castle built in the 15th century is located in Çamlıhemşin district of Rize province, Turkey. It is located in Çamlıhemşin County, Rize Province, Turkey. The castle is among the unique beauties of the Storm River Valley.

• By your own vehicle: You can reach Zilkale by your own vehicle. When the road splits at the outlet of Çamlıhemşin, you can follow the forest road by heading towards Zilkale. You can climb for about 15 kilometers to reach the castle.
• Public transportation: You can use buses, minibuses or full lines from the provincial capital of Rize to the county of Çamlıhemşin. After arriving in Çamlıhemşin, you can use the minibuses or full lines within the county to go to the castle. It is useful to research the routes and times of public transport in advance.
• Tour companies: You can visit Zilkale as part of the Black Sea tours organized by tour companies located in Rize or its surroundings. These tours often allow you to explore the natural and historical beauties, including the castle.

With each transportation option, you have the opportunity to experience up close the mystical atmosphere and fascinating history of Zilkale.

Is there a fee?

Is there a fee for the ring? The entrance fee to Zilkale is 5 TL for the year 2023. In addition, admission is free for visitors under the age of 18 and over the age of 65.2 The castle is not affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The castle is not affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Activities to be done on the call

Activities to be called There are many activities you can do during your visit to Zilkale:

1. Exploring the castle : You can explore the historic structure of Zilkale by visiting the corridors, towers and observation tower inside the castle. By examining the details of the castle, you can trace the traces of the past.
2. Living the historical fabric: As you wander through this historic castle, which dates from the Middle Ages to the present, you can take a journey back in time. The stone workmanship, architectural details and defensive structures of the castle give you a sense of the historical atmosphere.
3. Enjoy the scenery The high position of Zilkale offers a magnificent view of the Storm River Valley. Going up to the castle to observe and photograph this unique landscape can be a pleasurable experience.
4. The nature walks You can take nature hikes on the forest road you will use to reach Zilkale. You can enjoy the natural beauty and fresh air of Chamlyhemshin.
5. In pursuit of historical traces: The natural beauty around the castle includes historical sites as well as old bridges, stone structures and living spaces in harmony with the natural texture.
6. The photo shoot: The impressive view of Zilkale, the historical texture and the surrounding natural beauty offer you the opportunity to capture great photo frames.

The history of Zilkale

The history of Zilkale, Although the date of Zilkale is not known with certainty, it is thought that it may have been built during the period of the Empire of Trabzon or by nobles affiliated with the Empire, based on various estimates and observations. The castle must have been built by the central administration or local nobles, according to the estimation of the British historian Anthony Bryer. Although the castle bears the name "Zir kale", which means "Lower Castle", it is popularly known as "Zil Kale". Zilkale has a similar structure to other castles such as Varoş Kale and Pazar Kale. Located on medieval caravan routes, Zilkale was used by the Genoese, Greeks and Ottomans until the late 1800s.

In an 1871 record, there are two ruined castles named "Kale-i Bala" and "Zir". The restoration of ZilKalen was carried out between 2008 and 2010, and after this restoration it became a tourist attraction. A concert given by pianist Tuluyhan Uğurlu in 2013 increased interest in the castle. Zilkale, with its historical and architectural structure, gives visitors a historical atmosphere and at the same time enchants with its impressive view.

The story of Zilkale

The story of Zilkale has been told through local legends and historical documents. One of these stories focuses on the process of building the castle and how its name changed to "Zilkale". Here's one of the stories told by Zilkale:

Construction of the Zilkale: According to legend, the story of the construction of Zilkale revolves around a nobleman and his daughter. The nobleman decides to have this castle built for his daughter's safety and happiness. But his daughter is in a love story. In the hope of finding a love, he hangs a bell in the sea and thinks that when his love returns, the bell will be rung.

Ringing the bell and name change: The bell never rings for many years. The nobleman's daughter waits for her love and longs for the sound of the bell every day as she looks at the sea. But when his beloved does not return, he becomes desperate and throws himself into the sea. Meanwhile, the wind chimes and seems to announce the girl's death. When the nobleman received the news of his daughter's death, he was overwhelmed with grief and named the castle "Zir Kale". The word "Zir" means "Lower Castle". In time, it became known as "Zil Kale" among the people.

This story tells an emotional story about where Zilkale's name comes from and is associated with the castle. However, it is a legend that is not based on accurate historical information, and different accounts can be found. Although the historical history and importance of Zilkale is uncertain, the stories told about the origin of its name can be considered an example that reflects the cultural richness of the region.