Pasinler Castle
Castle in Pasinler
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pasinler Castle, sometimes referred to as Hasan Castle,[1] is a ruined fortification in Pasinler, Turkey. The historical name for the town of Pasinler, Hasankale (lit. 'Castle of Hasan'), is derived from the castle.[2] The site has been used as a fortification since the Iron Age.
| Pasinler Castle | |
|---|---|
Gatehouse | |
 Interactive map of Pasinler Castle | |
| Location | Pasinler, Turkey |
| Coordinates | 39.97896°N 41.68138°E |
| Elevation | 1740 meters |
| Built | Iron Age |
| Rebuilt | 16th century |
History
The site features inscriptions and stonework from the reign of Minua.[3] During the Urartian period, the site was one of the most notable fortresses in northeastern Urartu, and it would have helped Urartian kings secure valuable resources in the region.[4] Later occupants of the fortress included the Byzantines,[1] Armenians, and White Sheep Turkomans.[5] Uzun Hasan, a 15th century Turkoman chief and possible etymological source of Hasankale, contributed to the fortification of the town and castle.[1][6] In the 16th century, the Ottomans rebuilt the castle, and it remained in use until after the Russo-Turkish War (1828–1829).[6] The site is a ruin in the modern period.
Description
The castle sits on a large rocky hill at an elevation of 1740 meters and overlooks the town of Pasinler and the surrounding plain.[7] There are three sets of walls, the outer two terminating at the steep rock face without forming complete circuits. A gatehouse lies on the western portion.[6] The site also includes a water tunnel that travels through the rock to the Pasinler Stream below.[7][3]
Early 18th century depiction from Tournefort
19th century depiction from Théophile Deyrolle
Tower with plain and river in background
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