Harput Castle, located on rocks overlooking the Elazığ Plain in Elazığ, is a historical castle dating back to the Urartu Kingdom and later coming under Ottoman rule; admission is free, and its 122-step dungeon and excavation sites are points of interest for visitors.
Harput Castle is built on rugged rocks northeast of the Elazığ Plain. It was constructed by the Urartu Kingdom in the 8th century BC, then came under the rule of the Persians, Romans, Sasanids, Byzantines, Artuqids, Seljuks, Akkoyunlus, and finally the Ottomans. It was incorporated into Ottoman lands in 1515 during the reign of Sultan Selim I. It is also known among the public as Milk Castle; according to legend, there was a water shortage during its construction, and the mortar was mixed with milk instead of water.
Excavations ongoing since 2005 have unearthed a Urartian cistern, an Ottoman mansion, the Artuqid Mosque (considered one of Turkey's oldest mosques), and a small Ottoman neighborhood. The most talked-about place by visitors is the dungeon, reached by descending 122 steps. The stairs are narrow and steep, requiring careful descent. Excavation work is still ongoing in some parts of the castle, so some areas are closed. Although it looks magnificent from the outside, there is a simple texture inside. Some find it neglected, while others find it impressive with its history. In summer, the heat and wind are notable, and there is almost no shade.
While exploring the castle, it is also possible to see other stops in Harput: Ulu Mosque, Arap Baba Tomb, and Buzluk Cave are all within walking distance. If you visit on a hot day, trying the local Cherry Harput Soda is a good idea.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Elazığ historical places, İzzet Paşa Mosque.
Guide's Note
Best time to visit
Summers in Harput are hot, and there is no shaded area inside the castle. Some visitors complain about strong winds on windy days. Spring and autumn mornings offer a more comfortable trip in terms of both temperature and light. Those who go closer to sunset say that the Elazığ Plain is covered in golden light.
How to get there?
Municipal buses from Elazığ city center to Harput run regularly. The closest stop to the castle is Ulukent Kanalboyu; from there, you can reach the castle road within 2 minutes on foot. Get off the bus, turn right at the end of the street, and follow the Castle road; you will reach the castle after a 200-meter walk. Those arriving by private car can park at the parking area at the foot of the castle.
How much time to spend at the castle?
1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the general area of the castle, descend and ascend the dungeon, and view the excavation sites. Those who allocate time for photography may extend this period slightly. If combined with other stops in Harput (Ulu Mosque, Arap Baba Tomb), half a day can be planned.
Route suggestion
Upon entering Harput, it is logical to first see the Harput Ulu Mosque and then proceed to the castle. After exploring the dungeon and excavation sites at the castle, you can move on to the Arap Baba Tomb and Buzluk Cave. On the way back to Elazığ city center, stopping by the Covered Bazaar to explore local delicacies completes the day.
Photo spots
The points overlooking the Elazığ Plain from the castle walls are the most preferred shots. In photos taken from the outside, the majestic appearance of the castle on the rocks stands out. The 122-step staircase leading down to the dungeon is also among the frequently shared photos by visitors.
Things to consider
The stairs leading down to the dungeon are steep and narrow, so non-slip shoes are important. Some sections may be closed due to ongoing excavation work; this situation varies from visit to visit. Some comments state that there isn't as much to see inside as it appears from the outside, and it is found to be simple. It's a good idea to adjust your expectations accordingly. In the summer heat, it is necessary to bring water.
History of Harput Castle
The castle was founded by the Urartu Kingdom in the 8th century BC, and subsequently passed through the rule of the Persians, Romans, Sasanids, Byzantines, Çubukoğulları, Artukoğulları, Seljuks, Dulkadiroğulları, and Akkoyunlus. In 1515, during the reign of Sultan Selim I, it was incorporated into Ottoman lands. Excavations ongoing since 2005 have brought to light a Urartian cistern, a mansion, the ruins of the Artuqid Mosque, and a small Ottoman neighborhood; work is still ongoing under the leadership of Fırat University.
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