Izmir Kadifekale

Kadifekale is a castle located in the Konak district of Izmir, overlooks the city from a height and has hosted many civilizations throughout history. It was built by Lysimachos, one of the generals of Alexander the Great, in the 3rd century BC. The ruins that have survived to this day bear traces of the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Principalities and Ottoman periods.

Historical and Architectural History

The construction of Kadifekale was continued by Alexander the Great's generals after his death. This castle was located at a strategic point not only for military purposes but also for the purpose of controlling Izmir. In the 13th century, Selim III. During the reign of John the Baptist, the castle walls were repaired and structures such as cisterns, churches and monasteries were added. However, it fell into ruin during the Ottoman period and lost its function.

Kadifekale Today

Kadifekale is one of the important touristic areas of İzmir today. The castle was built using stone and brick and is surrounded by five towers. The height of these towers varies between 20 and 35 meters. The castle also contains the remains of a large cistern and a small mosque from the Byzantine period. The walls were restored and illuminated in 2015.

Cultural Importance of Kadifekale

Kadifekale is of great importance not only for İzmir's but also for the cultural heritage of the entire region. In 2020, it was included in the World Heritage Tentative List as part of the heritage area created by UNESCO under the name 'İzmir Historical Port City'. This castle has a rich past both historically and culturally and has become an important symbol for the people of İzmir.

Current Renovation Works in Kadifekale

In recent years, the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality has accelerated the restoration work in Kadifekale. Since 2019, a weekly producer's market has been set up inside the castle, and the castle's surroundings have become a social meeting point. These renovation works have transformed Kadifekale from being just a historical site to an integrated one with today's social life.