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Ankara Castle's 2,300-year history atop Mount Pagos

Built by Lysimachus in the 3rd century BC, the fortress bears traces of the Roman, Byzantine and Seljuk periods.

July 30, 2026 Altındağ, Ankara
Ankara Castle's 2,300-year history atop Mount Pagos
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The acropolis of ancient Ankyra

Ankara Castle was built in the 3rd century BC by Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great's generals. Sitting atop Mount Pagos, it occupies a point that dominates the city both geographically and symbolically.

A layered history

Over the centuries, the fortress underwent various repairs during the Roman, Byzantine and Seljuk periods. This layered structure makes the castle one of Ankara's oldest settlement areas.

The 2015-2016 restoration

The fortress has 5 towers. It underwent an extensive restoration between 2015 and 2016.

Practical visiting information

The castle is located in Kale neighborhood, Altındağ district. Spanning a large area comprising an inner and outer citadel, it can be explored together with the historic fabric of Ulus.

Category
Travel
Date
July 30, 2026
Location
Altındağ, Ankara