KADIFEKALE
KADIFEKALE
Anatolian lands have hosted many civilizations, so it is possible to find traces of these civilizations all over Turkey and feel like traveling through time. Kadifekale is located in the city of Izmir, known as the pearl of the Aegean, on Pagos Hill, which can be called the most beautiful place of the city. It constitutes one of the most beautiful spots where the view of Izmir can be watched.
It was the Turkish people who gave the name Kadifekale to this castle, which was called Pagos in ancient times. It is thought to be inspired by Queen Kaydafe, the queen of that period. Kadifekale was important as a defense center since it was in a position where the city could be seem completely, and at that time it had a sacred place for people. It is thought that the settled life period began in the 6th century BC according to works that were found. Traces of many civilizations have been found in the works.
In ancient civilizations, wars required the construction of high and durable walls around the city. Today, some of these walls are still standing. The water tanks in the castle show us that this new city, which was created at that time, was built to meet the water needs. This important structure, which has seen many wars, rulers and natural disasters, has always been tried to be protected. It is certain that the theater with a capacity of 16 thousand people built at that time offered a unique experience with its sea view, but today there is no trace of the theater.
Kadifekale, which carries the influence of many rulers such as Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman; Since the 18th century, it has begun to carry Ottoman influences. The existing church in the castle was converted into a mosque and used. However, in this period, the castle could not challenge time and became ruined. Although the rapidly increasing world population as of the 20th century caused this castle to be lost and its value not understood, Kadifekale has been repaired and brought to the city by the Izmir Municipality. Today, the western walls of Kadifekale have managed to survive thanks to the restorations.
WHERE IS KADIFEKALE?
Kadifekale is a world heritage that attracts a lot of attention with its architecture and history. The castle is located in the Konak district of Izmir.
You can reach Kadifekale from the center of Izmir by public transport or your personal vehicle.
Entry to the castle is free. It is open to visitors every day of the week.
THE HISTORY OF KADIFEKALE
It is possible to see the traces of the Persian reign, which ruled in Anatolia for 200 years, in Kadifekale. After Alexander’s conquest of Anatolia, the Persian rule comes to an end and the door to a new era is opened. The fact that every leader who ruled Anatolia left behind new urbanization efforts and different cultural structures gives us an experience that makes us travel to the past. The story of Kadifekale also begins here. According to rumors, Alexander’s dream on Pagos Hill laid the foundation for establishing a new city. The people were hesitant to disrupt their existing order and settle in a new region, so they went to Apollo to get a prophecy. Apollo told the people that those who will live in Pagos will lead a much happier life than before. In this way, the people began to see this place as a holy place. Although the relocation of the city took place after the death of Alexander, the idea of creating a new city led to the revival of trade and its strategic importance as a port city. Being at the highest point of the city was also a great advantage militarily.
