Paşalar Castle

The most suitable periods for Paşalar Castle are between April-June and September-November. During these cooler months, the steep uphill walk is much easier; the view gains a special beauty in spring when the plain turns green or in autumn when it takes on autumn colors. In mid-summer, walking during midday can be quite tiring. In winter months, the risk of the path becoming slippery should be taken into consideration.

To reach the castle, which is approximately 60 kilometers from Sakarya city center, you first need to come to Pamukova district. Turn towards Karapınar Village from the turn-off at the second kilometer of the Pamukova-Mekece highway. There is no car access to the castle; you need to park your car at a suitable spot and proceed by walking along the forest path. The last 500 meters are quite steep and challenging; some visitors come by bicycle and complete this final section on foot.

The path leading to the castle goes through the forest. Since there may not be clear markings along the way, downloading a map in advance or getting information from local guides will be helpful. When you reach the summit, you can see the plain stretching from Geyve to Mekece from a bird's-eye view. There are points where you need to walk on the castle walls; be careful in these sections, especially do not let children out of your sight. After enjoying the view, you can return by the same path.

Paşalar Castle, being located right at the summit of the mountain, offers an almost 360-degree view of the Pamukova and Geyve plains. In photos taken in front of or on the ramparts, both the historical texture and the wide plain in the background can be captured together. The reflection of the light on the plain at sunset creates a particularly valuable moment for photography. In the early morning hours, when fog covers the plain, a completely different atmosphere is created.

The castle is in a ruined state and has not been restored; some wall sections may be unstable or collapsed. Be extremely careful at points with a risk of height. Make sure to bring enough water; there are no sales points in the vicinity. Prefer hiking boots or sturdy-soled sports shoes; it is difficult to walk on this path with flat-soled or high-heeled shoes. Families with children should take extra precautions when approaching the castle walls.

There are no food and drink establishments around the castle. There are various restaurants and cafes in Pamukova town center; you can eat in the town center before or after your visit. Do not forget to bring snacks and plenty of water with you.

Paşalar Castle dates back to the Byzantine period and was conquered by Ottoman forces in 1314. Also known as Karaceyş Castle, the structure gives its name to Pamukova's Paşalar neighborhood. The mountain where the castle is located consists of a single mass and can be seen from every point of the plain; this clearly shows why the structure was built exactly here. The construction technique of the ramparts reflects the architectural features of the Byzantine and Roman periods. The castle is currently a historical ruin awaiting restoration; visitors prefer this place mostly for the view and hiking experience.