Amasya Castle

Amasya Castle, also known as Harşene Castle, is a historic fortress situated on the steep limestone cliffs of Mount Harşena in Amasya, northern Turkey. Overlooking the Yeşilırmak River, this strategic military installation dates back to antiquity, though its exact original construction year is not specified in available records. The site has witnessed centuries of conflict and transformation, serving various empires including the Persian, Roman, Pontic, and Byzantine realms. It suffered significant damage during wars between the Romans and Pontics but was substantially restored following the 1075 conquest by the Danishmend dynasty. The fortress remained militarily active until the 18th century and notably provided refuge to the Ottoman prince Çelebi Mehmed during his flight from Timur's invading forces in the early 15th century.

The castle features extensive defensive architecture, including two-kilometer-long walls constructed from rubble masonry and top-level fortifications built with ashlar stone. It contains four named gates, dungeons, wells, and a sophisticated system of rock-carved cisterns and tunnels. A remarkable engineering feat within the complex is the Cilanbolu Cistern, accessible via a tunnel stairway descending 186 meters with 150 surviving steps. The site also encompasses galleried monumental rock tombs carved into the cliff face at varying heights, including eighteen tombs of Pontic kings from the 3rd century BC. Today, Amasya Castle is open to the public and stands as a testament to the region's layered history, accompanied by nearby ruins of Ottoman-era structures such as the Maidens' Palace, mosques, and traditional houses along the riverbanks.