Sığırlık II Kalesi, Isparta'nın Sütçüler ilçesinde Sığırlık ve Çandır köyleri arasındaki tepede bulunan Erken Bizans döneminden kalma, doğu duvarlarındaki üç yuvarlak penceresiyle tanınan iyi korunmuş bir yapıdır.
Sığırılık II Castle rises on a hill north of the road between Sığırılık (Yeşilyurt) village and Çandır village, in the Sütçüler district of Isparta. It is believed to have been built during the Early Byzantine period. This is one of the two Sığırılık castles in the region; the other is Sığırılık I Castle, located in Asar Neighborhood, closer to Sütçüler.
The most striking feature of the structure is the three round windows on its eastern walls. The castle is generally well-preserved. Its ramparts are standing, and the surrounding valley can be seen from the top of the hill. The area is also referred to as the Sığırılık Castles route. Along this route, which passes near Yazısöğüt, Sığırılık I Castle, a mountain pass, and Sığırılık II Castle are successively lined up.
This is not a classic tourist stop. It is an archaeological site, with no signs or visitor center around it. We can say it's an intermediate stop for history-loving travelers who come to Sütçüler and visit places like Yazılı Canyon and the Ancient City of Adada.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The castle is in an open area and is not closed to visitors all year round, but since the ascent to the hill is via a path or an uneven road, it is wise to avoid midday hours in the summer heat. In spring, the surrounding greenery, and in autumn, the light makes photography more enjoyable. In winter months, there may be snowfall in the region, so check road conditions beforehand.
How to Get There
From Isparta city center to Sütçüler district is approximately 60-70 km. After reaching Sütçüler, you continue in the direction of Sığırılık (Yeşilyurt) village; the castle is on the hill north of the road between this village and Çandır village. Public transportation does not run frequently on this route, so going by your own car or a rented car from Sütçüler is the most practical way.
Sığırılık Castles Route
There are two Sığırılık castles in the region: Sığırılık I in Asar Neighborhood and Sığırılık II here. There is a mountain pass between the two, and this route is also marked as a route passing near Yazısöğüt village. Visiting both together on the same day is more efficient than going alone; both are located close to each other.
How Much Time to Allocate
The castle itself is a small structure; walking around and taking photos will take 30-45 minutes. However, since you've come all the way to Sütçüler, you might want to add nearby points such as Yazılı Canyon Nature Park, the Ancient City of Adada, and Taşkapı Ruins to your itinerary. In this case, allocating half a day to a full day for the entire region is realistic.
Sütçüler and Surroundings
Sütçüler is one of the districts that best reflects Isparta's Lakes Region identity. Besides the castle, Sefer Ağa Mosque, Sığırılık I Castle, the Ancient City of Adada, and Taşkapı Ruins are among the other historical stops in the district. On the nature side, Yazılı Canyon Nature Park stands out. Visiting the canyon after exploring the castle completes the day.
Things to Pay Attention To
The castle is not a maintained archaeological site; there are no signs or barrier systems. Wear sturdy shoes when climbing the hill and walk carefully. In summer, protection from the sun, and in winter, checking road conditions beforehand would be beneficial. Since there are no shops or water points nearby, carry water and snacks with you.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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