Trabzon Castle is a castle structure in Ortahisar dating from the Roman period, strengthened during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras; it offers free entry to a hill with city and Black Sea views.
The oldest traces of Trabzon Castle date back to the 4th century BC, to the Roman period. Even Xenophon mentioned these walls when passing through the city. The castle was later expanded during the Byzantine period, and after its conquest by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, it was strengthened by the Ottomans against potential threats from the Black Sea. It consists of three sections: Yukarı Hisar (Upper Castle), Orta Hisar (Middle Castle), and Aşağı Hisar (Lower Castle). Yukarı Hisar served as an acropolis; sources mention hippodrome ruins, a tower, and bath structures here.
The name of the castle is also linked to the origin of the city's name. The rock mass between the Tabakhane and Zağnos valleys roughly resembles a trapezoid, and it is believed that the name Trabzon comes from this. Today, some parts of the walls are still standing at different points in Ortahisar. Some have disappeared over time, while others are used as a library. There is a divergence of opinion among visitors: some express disappointment at the neglect of the walls, while others believe that the view of the city and the sea from the hill is worth it.
If you plan to visit, consider the restoration status. Comments sometimes mention that entry to the castle is not possible, and it is found closed despite being listed as open. However, those who climb the hill for the view state that seeing the city and the Black Sea from above is a sufficient reason even for a short break.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Trabzon historical places, Sumela Monastery.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Since the castle is outdoors, weather conditions are important. Morning hours stand out as the time when the light hits the walls and the sea more clearly. In rainy Black Sea weather, the stones can become slippery, so watch your footwear.
How to Get There?
Trabzon Castle is in Ortahisar Neighborhood, in the city center. It's about 5 minutes from the center by Bahçecik minibuses. If you're going by your own car, head towards Ortahisar and follow the castle signs. Parking is limited; you may need to look for parking on surrounding streets.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
A castle visit usually takes 30-60 minutes. Walking along the walls and taking photos can be considered a short hill break. If you want to explore other parts of Ortahisar, a half-day plan is more reasonable.
Explore with its Surroundings
The castle is part of Ortahisar's historical fabric. Some of the wall ruins are scattered at different points within the neighborhood, and a section has been converted into a library. After visiting the castle, walking through the streets of Ortahisar is a good continuation to get to know the old center of the city.
Good Spots for Photos
The view from the hill overlooking the city and the Black Sea is the most mentioned scenic spot by visitors. The exterior of the walls, especially with its old stone texture before restoration, attracts photographers. For panoramic shots, choose the highest accessible point on the hill.
Things to Know Before You Go
The castle is sometimes partially closed due to restoration work. Some visitors report finding it closed despite being listed as open. The general state of preservation of the castle may not meet expectations; some comments mention that most of the walls are ruined and scattered. Confirming the current status with a local source or the municipality before going will prevent disappointment.
Three Sections of the Castle
Trabzon Castle consists of three main sections: Yukarı Hisar (Upper Castle), Orta Hisar (Middle Castle), and Aşağı Hisar (Lower Castle). Yukarı Hisar was built as the protective section of the inner castle and served as an acropolis. Some sources mention hippodrome ruins, a tower, baths, and palace structures here. The castle is also notable for being built with stones collected from ancient monuments.
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