Erzurum’s Mysterious Engüzekkapı Castle to Open to Tourism

Perched atop steep cliffs in the Uzundere district of Erzurum, the Engüzekkapı Castle has managed to retain its mystique for years due to its challenging accessibility. The goal is to bring this historical fortress, which has survived from the Middle Ages to the present day, into the tourism sector through restoration and landscaping efforts.Mayor of Uzundere, Halis Özsoy, in an interview with an AA correspondent, stated that there are three churches in the region. Özsoy, pointing out that the Öşvank Church consists of three structures, expressed serious concerns about the current condition of the historic building, stating, 'There are severe structural problems.'Özsoy conveyed that the church's load-bearing sections have serious deformations, there are collapses in the ceiling, and disconnections have occurred in the connecting sections. Highlighting that a structural monitoring study was conducted in the church seven years ago, Özsoy also mentioned that 45 Georgian tourist groups visit the region every week.Emphasizing the great significance of the historic building for Georgian visitors, Özsoy warned that in the event of a minor earthquake or natural disaster, the building could collapse completely, potentially resulting in fatalities if visitors are present. Özsoy underscored that the building is not only important for Turkey, but also constitutes a significant architectural work on a global scale, advocating for the commencement of repairs as soon as possible.Özsoy, who expressed their intention to diversify tourism in the district, stated that they aim to add cultural and faith tourism to water and nature sports. However, he drew attention to the increasing deterioration of the Öşvank Church each year, emphasizing that the structure has become risky for visitors as it is now inaccessible.He described serious damages and collapses in the load-bearing elements of the stone structure, cracking in the corner sections of the walls, the collapse of the ceiling in the main apse area, and the formation of depressions in the upper dome section. He warned that if the restoration does not begin this year or the next, irreparable damages could emerge in the future.Özsoy, who also appealed to the Georgian side, stated that they requested the allocation of a building in Batumi. Despite this, he expressed his belief that the process will be resolved and said, 'We believe that this building will be repaired as soon as possible with the efforts of our government officials.'Özsoy pointed out that Engüzekkapı Castle, located within the boundaries of Dikyar neighborhood, held a strategic position during the Middle Ages for both defense and surveillance purposes. He reminded us that the castle had been under the dominion of the Georgians, Karakoyunlu, and the Ottomans. He stated that the castle, referred to as 'Ağcakale' by the Ottomans, was one of the garrison areas established to ensure the security of a significant transit route.Özsoy mentioned that due to transportation difficulties, the castle remained a mystery for many years. However, he announced that a road leading to the castle has been constructed, and the necessary survey and restitution project for the restoration is ready. He expressed that the castle is currently in ruins, but the Governor of Erzurum, Aydın Baruş, has issued instructions to improve the quality of the castle's entrance road. Özsoy also mentioned that discussions have been held with the DAP Administration, and if funds are allocated, the restoration of the castle will commence.

Mysterious Castle Hidden for Years to Be Opened to Tourism: Work Begins

The Öşvank Church is facing the imminent risk of collapse.

"It's no longer possible to enter inside."

The Engüzekkapı Castle is set to be unveiled to the global tourism scene.

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