The walls contain significant amounts of spolia, or reused building materials, from ancient Greek and Roman structures.
The Upper Castle represents the oldest part of the fortification, functioning as a citadel or acropolis.
The castle served as the primary seat of power for the Empire of Trebizond between 1204 and 1461.
Much of the fortification was constructed using local limestone and volcanic rock common to the Black Sea region.
The Middle Castle is connected to the Lower Castle via a series of gates that once controlled trade and military movement into the harbor.
During the Ottoman period, the castle walls were preserved and utilized as defensive lines until the 19th century.
Trabzon Castle consists of three distinct sections: the Upper Castle (Yukarı Hisar), the Middle Castle (Orta Hisar), and the Lower Castle (Aşağı Hisar). The structure dates back to the Byzantine era, with foundations possibly originating in the 5th century BC. Its walls incorporate repurposed stones, including marble architectural elements from even earlier classical structures. The fortifications span the area from the hills overlooking the city down toward the sea. As the city expanded during the Ottoman period, many sections of the walls were integrated into residential housing. The site serves as a physical record of the city's transition through Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule. Visitors can walk segments of the ramparts which offer elevated perspectives over the Ortahisar district.
The elevated vantage points in the Upper Castle section looking down toward the sea and the old city rooftops.
Wear footwear with strong grip as some walking paths along the walls are uneven or slippery.
The site is largely an open-air area, so plan your visit during clear weather to navigate the stone sections safely.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the surrounding Ortahisar neighborhood to see how historical walls have been merged with local homes.
Do not attempt to climb sections of the walls that lack safety barriers or appear unstable due to age.
