Espiye Andoz Castle is a hilltop fortification in Giresun, Türkiye, dating to the 1300s BC and featuring 147-meter walls, five bastions, and a water cistern with panoramic views of the valley and sea.
Andoz Castle is built on a sharp hill rising beside the Yağlıdere, just 2 km from Espiye town center. Although its exact construction date is unknown, it is dated to the 1300s BC; during that period, Espiye was within the borders of the Empire of Trebizond. The purpose and builder of the castle are not clear, but its small structure surrounded by cliffs suggests it was designed not for people to live in, but as a lookout point and acropolis for the surrounding settlement.
Today, 147-meter-long walls, five bastions, and a water cistern remain. At the eastern end, there is a vaulted structural remnant measuring 4.80 x 3.72 meters; the entrance is protected by two semi-circular bastions. The castle, which was taken under protection in 1990 by the decision of the Trabzon Cultural and Natural Heritage Preservation Board, took its current form after restorations in subsequent years.
The most discussed topic in visitor comments is the stairs: it is necessary to drive to the foot of the castle and then climb 185 steps, and some visitors note that there are no handrails to hold onto. While some visitors say the view makes the difficulty worthwhile, others complain that the roads and landscaping are neglected. Thanks to its commanding position over the city, valley, and sea, a wide view of Espiye and its surroundings opens up for those who climb to the top.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The castle is in the open air, with almost no shade around it. Climbing the 185 steps in the midday heat during summer months is tiring, so early hours or late afternoon might be preferred. In spring and autumn, both the temperature is milder and the clarity of the view is better. Remember that paths and stairs can become slippery on rainy days.
How to Get There
From Giresun city center to Espiye is 32 km by road. After reaching Espiye, you proceed towards Sakarya Neighborhood and cover another 2 km to the castle. It is possible to drive to the foot of the castle, then climb to the top via a path and a 185-step staircase. Those using public transport can reach the foot of the hill by walking from Espiye center or by a short taxi ride.
How Much Time to Allocate
Since the castle itself is small, the tour at the top is short; the main time is taken by climbing the stairs. A total of 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, including climbing, touring, and descending, is sufficient. Those who want to take photos or watch the view for a long time can extend this period slightly.
Things to Pay Attention To
The most frequently mentioned issue in visitor comments is the length of the stairs and the lack of handholds. Some visitors state that the roads and landscaping are neglected, and some parts of the castle appear worn. The castle is currently not suitable for those with walking difficulties, families with small children, or visitors using wheelchairs. It is advisable to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes.
Photo Spots
After climbing to the top, the area around the vaulted remnant at the eastern end of the castle and the upper level of the walls offer a wide-angle view of Espiye district and the Yağlıdere valley. For clarity, the light before noon, looking towards the sea in the morning hours when the fog has dispersed, yields better results.
History of the Castle
Since there is no definite inscription, it is not precisely known who built the castle. The structure, dated to the 1300s BC, was located in the territory of the Empire of Trebizond at the time; although the city of Giresun was conquered by the Hacı Emir Principality in 1397, Espiye remained within the borders of the Empire of Trebizond for some time. The castle, extending in an east-west direction, was built from various sizes of rubble stones; the entrance is protected by two semi-circular bastions, a door is located at the southeast corner, and a window on the western wall.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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