Van Castle Travel Guide: Explore the Ancient Fortress of Eastern Turkey
Van, one of the fascinating cities of Eastern Anatolia, continues to attract its visitors not only with the splendour of Lake Van but also with its thousands of years of history. Van Castle, which is one of the must-see places for those who come to Van, is one of the most magnificent ruins of the Urartu civilisation that have survived to the present day. If you want to have an unforgettable historical experience among the places to visit in Van, Van Castle is waiting for you.
History and Architecture of Van Castle
Van Castle was built by the Urartians in the 9th century BC. This enormous castle, built by the Urartian King Sarduri I, was also the centre of Tushpa, the capital of Urartu. The fortress was built on a natural rocky ridge on the shore of Lake Van. Its length is approximately 1800 metres and its height reaches 100 metres at some points.
The large stone blocks and fine workmanship used in its construction reveal the point reached by Urartian engineering. Limestone was used in the lower parts of the fortress, while lighter materials were preferred in the upper parts. This enabled it to defy centuries.
The inscriptions found inside the fortress are written in Urartian cuneiform and are of great importance in terms of understanding the history of the region. The Sarduri I Inscription is one of the most important texts of the Urartian period.
Legends and Mythological Links of Van Castle
There are many legends around Van Castle. One of them is about the ‘mysterious tunnels’ of the castle. According to the rumour, there are secret passages descending from the castle to Lake Van. It is said that these passages were used for escape and water supply in times of war.
It is also believed in some narratives that Van Castle was one of the first places where Noah's ark docked after the flood. Although not as much as Mount Ararat, such mythological rumours have taken place in the memory of the people of the region.
Van Castle Today: The Visitor Experience
Today, Van Castle is a protected archaeological site and is open to visitors. Although it takes some effort to climb to the top of the castle, the view of Lake Van from the top will be worth all your tiredness.
While walking around the castle, be sure to see the following points:
Urartian Rock Tombs
Analı-Kız Tombs
Remains of a Mosque
Ottoman and Seljuk Period Buildings
Sign of Sardur
Especially at sunset, the view from the skirts of the castle towards the lake offers unforgettable frames for photography enthusiasts.
How to get to Van Castle?
The castle, which is only 5 kilometres away from Van city centre, is at a very easy point in terms of transportation.
Transport Alternatives:
Private Vehicle: It is easily reached by following the shore of Lake Van on the way to Edremit direction from Van city centre.
Public Transport: It is possible to reach the castle by minibuses and buses.
Walking or Cycling: Especially in the spring months, reaching the castle on foot from the lake shore offers a unique experience.
Places to See Near Van Castle
After visiting Van Castle, here are other Van tourist attractions that you should definitely visit in the immediate vicinity:
1. Van Urartu Museum
Located right next to Van Castle, this modern museum exhibits artefacts from many civilisations, especially Urartu. Combining the museum with a tour of the castle provides a holistic history experience.
2. Old Van City Ruins
Located at the foot of the castle, this ancient settlement is full of Ottoman-era houses, mosques and baths. Structures such as Eski Van Mosque, Kaya Çelebi Mosque and Hüsrev Pasha Mosque can be seen here.
3. Lake Van and Pier
You can reach the cool waters of Lake Van by descending from the castle to the lake shore. In the summer months, it is very pleasant to walk around the lake or drink tea at Van İskele.
4. Akdamar Island and Church
This island, about 50 minutes from the castle, is famous for the Akdamar Church. Built in the 10th century, this Armenian church attracts attention with its original reliefs and architecture.
Source: Kültür Portalı
Van Castle Entrance Fee & More
Visiting Hours: It may vary according to the summer and winter periods; It is usually open between 08.00 am - 19.00 pm.
Entrance Fee: As of 2025, the entrance fee is around 3 euros. The MuseumPass is valid.
Guidance: Making use of museum guides can be very useful in terms of information.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn months are the most ideal periods in terms of both weather conditions and scenery.
What to do in Van? Route Starting with Van Castle
If you come to Van, Van Castle should be just the beginning. You can start the day with a Van breakfast and make a historical journey to the castle, then explore the museums and the lake surroundings. You should definitely add Van's famous pearl mullet migration, cat, Muradiye waterfall, Hosap castle and Çavuştepe to your route.
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