Eğirdir Castle is a historic structure located in the Mediterranean Region of Türkiye, within the town of Eğirdir in the province of Isparta. It is situated on a peninsula that extends into Lake Eğirdir. Comprising an inner and an outer castle, this fortification was constructed, repaired, and utilized by various political entities throughout different historical periods. While the surviving remains are predominantly from the Byzantine period, the castle also bears notable traces from the Seljuk, Hamidid, and Ottoman eras.

Geographical Location and Physical Structure

Eğirdir Castle is located in the town center of Eğirdir, aligned along a north-south axis on the peninsula. It consists of two parts: the inner castle, which is located at the tip of the peninsula, and the outer castle, of which some wall remnants are still visible. Today, parts of the castle walls are integrated with residential structures. In terms of construction technique, the castle walls were built using alternating layers of brick and stone, with the outer surface clad in stone and the interior filled with rubble.

Historical Development

Although the exact date of the castle's initial construction is unknown, some assumptions suggest that the structure may trace its origins back to the Lydian period. However, no direct archaeological evidence from that time has been found. The existing remains are dated to the Middle Byzantine Period, based on architectural and construction features. During the Seljuk era, the castle underwent restorations and became part of a broader urban development project, transforming the town into a significant hub for trade and lodging.

Under the Hamidid Beylik, when Eğirdir became the second capital, the castle retained its strategic importance and underwent further repairs. After coming under Ottoman control, the castle gradually lost its defensive significance, leading to neglect and eventual deterioration. It was damaged during Timur's Anatolian campaign in 1402, when both Eğirdir and Nis Island were captured. The castle subsequently changed hands between the Karamanids and the Ottomans.

Usage and Deterioration

Throughout its history, the castle was used for both military and civilian purposes. During the Ottoman period, it functioned as a granary and served as a center for collecting tithe taxes. It is noted that the entrance once had multiple gates—the currently visible gate being the middle one—with traces of the other gates still partially observable. The southern end of the castle is locally referred to as the "Gavur Mezarlığı" (Infidel Cemetery).

Over time, the castle was significantly damaged as locals dismantled stones from the structure for use in other buildings. With the decline of its defensive function during the Ottoman era, the castle was not maintained or restored. Today, Eğirdir Castle is protected as a first-degree archaeological site.