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العربيةKızkalesi — Mersin
Kızkalesi — in Erdemli district. The castle rising from the sea 200 metres off Korykos bay is the symbol of Mersin; it is visited together with Korykos Castle on the shore.
About
Kızkalesi is a sea castle built on an islet that took its present form in the 12th century under the Armenian Kingdom as part of the ancient city of Korykos' defence system. Together with Korykos Land Castle on the opposite shore, it is part of a twin structure protecting the bay; the bay between the two castles has been used as a settlement and harbour since antiquity.
In summer the castle can be reached by boats from the shore or by swimming; the bay and the Taurus Mountains can be viewed from atop its walls. With its beach, businesses with sun loungers and fish restaurants, the area is Erdemli's busiest tourism centre. The castle can be toured with MüzeKart; entry and boat times change by season, check the muze.gov.tr record for the current situation before going.
Practical Information
Practical information
| District | Erdemli |
|---|---|
| Best season | May–October; boat trips run regularly in summer |
| Transit | On the Mersin–Silifke road, 23 km to Erdemli; Kızkalesi minibuses depart from the centre |
MüzeKart is valid. The entrance fee is not published in the muze.gov.tr record, so it is not stated; confirm the current fee from the official page or confirm at the ticket office.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours
| Day / source | Hours |
|---|---|
| Official (muze.gov.tr) | 08:30–19:00, box office 18:30 |
Location & Directions
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