Rumkale Castle Travel Guide: Discover the Hidden Fortress on the Euphrates
Rumkale, located at the intersection of the Euphrates River and Merzimen Stream in southeastern Turkey, is a treasure waiting to be discovered with its thousands of years of history, mysterious legends and magnificent natural landscapes. This historical castle in the Yavuzeli district of Gaziantep is a destination that fascinates both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. If you are planning an unforgettable cultural trip in Southeastern Anatolia, Rumkale should definitely be on your route.
What is the History of Rumkale?
Rumkale is a region that has been home to many civilisations throughout history. The castle, which came under Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Arab sovereignty, is of great importance especially in terms of Christian history. According to rumours, St Johannes (John) reproduced and spread copies of the Bible here. For this reason, Rumkale was an important centre for early Christianity.
Known as ‘Hromkla’ during the Roman period, the castle was used as a strategic defence point during the Byzantine period. The castle was rebuilt by the Ayyubid ruler Melik Adil in the 12th century and the structures that have survived to the present day belong to this period. During the Ottoman period, the castle maintained its importance for regional control.
Historical Monuments to See in Rumkale
Today, Rumkale offers a visual feast for history enthusiasts with its still-standing castle walls and stone structures. The main historical buildings that attract attention in the region are as follows:
Walls and Bastions: Approximately 1.5 kilometres of walls surrounding the castle give information about the military importance of the region.
Water Cisterns: Large cisterns built to meet the need for water in the castle can still be seen.
Remains of St Nerses Church: Dating back to the 12th century and one of the centres of the Armenian Catholicosate, this church shows the religious role of the castle.
Monastery and Cells: The stone cells where the monks used to retreat create a mystical atmosphere for those exploring the castle.
The Legends of Rumkale
Rumkale's legends fascinate visitors as much as its atmosphere. One of the most well-known stories is about the sacred relics and the first copies of the Bible kept here. Another legend told among the people of the region is that a monk living in the castle crossed the Euphrates River on foot and performed miracles. Such legends further deepen the mystical atmosphere of Rumkale.
Current Status of Rumkale
Rumkale is being restored and restored to tourism with the joint efforts of Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Landscaping, walking paths, viewing terraces and transport facilities are improved every year. Although the castle is not yet fully open to visitors, it is possible to see the castle from its surroundings with boat tours.
How to get to Rumkale?
The location of Rumkale is approximately 25 km from the Yavuzeli district of Gaziantep. Transport is quite comfortable and there are several options for visitors:
Private Car Transport: You can reach Rumkale from the Gaziantep city centre via Yavuzeli with a journey of approximately 1 hour.
Public Transport: Minibuses depart from Gaziantep Bus Station to Yavuzeli. From Yavuzeli, you can go to Rumkale by private car or taxi.
Boat Tours: You can have the chance to see Rumkale from a different angle over the Euphrates River with boat tours organised through Şanlıurfa Halfeti.
Activities to do in Rumkale
Rumkale is an ideal place not only for historical but also for nature and photography enthusiasts. The main activities in the region:
Exploring the Castle by Boat Tour: Boat tours on the Euphrates offer the most beautiful view of the castle.
Nature Walks and Trekking: The surrounding natural paths are perfect for those who want to spend time alone with nature.
Photography: You can capture unique frames at this point where natural light, stone architecture and the river meet.
Picnic and Camping: Some spots near the castle are suitable for picnics and tent camping, especially in spring.
The Best Time to Visit Rumkale
Although Rumkale can be visited in all seasons of the year, the most ideal periods are spring and autumn. Although it is possible to cool off by the river in the region, which can be quite hot in summer, cooler seasons should be preferred for hiking and exploration. In winter, access may be more difficult as some roads may be closed.
Places to See Around Rumkale
While visiting Rumkale, you should definitely include other historical and natural beauties in the vicinity in your plan:
Halfeti: This hidden paradise, about 15 km from Rumkale, is known as the ‘sunken city’. It is famous for its flooded mosque minaret.
Zeugma Ancient City: An ancient city famous for its mosaics that must be visited on the way back to Gaziantep.
Birecik Dam: An ideal spot for nature views and bird watching.
Gaziantep City Centre: A cultural and gastronomic journey awaits you with Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Bakırcılar Bazaar and Antep cuisine.
Things to Know When Travelling to Rumkale
Do not forget to take water and sunscreen with you; the heat in summer can be difficult.
Be sure to bring your camera, especially at sunset, the combination of the castle and the river offers postcard images.
Accommodation in the region is limited, usually in the centre of Gaziantep.
Organising a guided tour allows you to get more information about both history and legends.
Keşfet ile ziyaret ettiğin tüm kategorileri tek akışta gör!
Test
Gündem
Magazin
Video
Send Comment