Çimenlik Castle is a fortress built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1461-1462 at the narrowest point of the Dardanelles; it houses the Naval Museum, Piri Reis Gallery, and a cannonball from the 1915 Çanakkale Battles.
Çimenlik Castle stands at the narrowest point of the strait, on the plain where the Sarıçay River meets the sea. Fatih Sultan Mehmet had it built between 1461-1462, a few years after the conquest of Istanbul. Its purpose was to control the strait in conjunction with Kilitbahir Castle on the opposite shore. The rectangular plan, measuring 110x160 meters, consists of an outer wall and a central main tower. In the 19th century, parts of the western and northern walls were demolished and replaced with a redoubt; four cut-stone covered bonnets are still visible today.
The castle was used as the administrative center of the Central Defense Group during the March 18, 1915 Çanakkale Battles. A shell fired from the British battleship Queen Elizabeth created a two-meter hole in the northern wall and remained unexploded inside. That shell still rests where it fell. Within the walls, the section that was formerly a gunpowder magazine is now the Piri Reis Gallery, and there is also the Fatih Mosque (contemporaneous with the castle's construction) and a mosque built by Sultan Abdülaziz between 1861-1876.
In the garden, cannons of various calibers, cannon carriages, anti-tank weapons, mines, and the remains of a German submarine recovered from the sea are exhibited. Visitors usually tour the castle along with the Naval Museum and the Nusret Mine Ship. As frequently mentioned in comments, since the two are side-by-side, it's possible to see both with a single entrance. Saying an hour is enough would not be entirely accurate; the material exhibited from the war period is quite extensive, and visitors state that they grasp the scale of the Çanakkale Defense once again through the objects here.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Çanakkale historical places, Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Summer months in Çanakkale are both hot and crowded. Since shaded areas in the castle garden are limited, spring or autumn might be preferred. Going in the morning hours during the day avoids both the heat and coinciding with groups. Near March 18th, due to Çanakkale Victory commemorations, the city and castle become more crowded.
How to Get There?
Çimenlik Castle is located in the city center of Çanakkale, close to the coastline. It is within walking distance from hotels and accommodation areas in the center. For those coming from outside the city, the Çanakkale Strait Bridge or the Gallipoli-Lapseki ferry line can be used. Those who also want to see Kilitbahir Castle on the opposite shore can cross quickly by ferry between Eceabat and Çanakkale.
City Transportation
Paid parking is available around the castle, which can be used by those arriving by car. It is also possible to reach it by walking from the city center or by a short minibus ride. Walking along the coastal road makes the journey to the castle enjoyable in itself.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
One hour might be sufficient for just a castle tour. However, if you include the Naval Museum and the Nusret Mine Ship inside, this time extends to 1.5-2 hours. The exhibition areas in the garden (cannons, submarine remains) also take time, so it's important not to rush.
Suggested Itinerary
You can easily incorporate Çimenlik Castle into your Çanakkale city center tour. On the same day, you can see Aynalı Çarşı (Mirror Bazaar), the coastal promenade, and the Trojan Horse statue. If you have time, crossing to Kilitbahir Castle by ferry and comparing the two castles on the same day is an interesting experience.
Photo Spots
The 1915 cannonball in the castle wall is the most frequently observed spot by visitors. The cannons and submarine remains in the garden also attract attention for photos. The view of the strait from the castle walls offers good shots, especially near sunset.
Things to Consider
There is little shade in the castle garden, so it's advisable to bring a hat and water in summer. The walking surface is stone and uneven, which might make it challenging for wheelchairs or strollers. Entrance fees and hours are updated periodically, so it's necessary to verify them before visiting.
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