Micingirt Castle

Micingirt Castle is a historical fortress located within the boundaries of İnkaya village (Aşağı Micingert), in the Sarıkamış district of Kars province, which served as a regional center throughout the Middle Ages. Built on a single rock mass in the area known as “Aşağı Pasin,” the castle provides valuable data on medieval settlement and defense systems through its location, architectural features, and the stone craftsmanship and archaeological finds identified in its surroundings.

Location and Geographic Features

Micingirt Castle is situated in a mountainous and rugged terrain east of Erzurum. Positioned at the convergence of valleys originating from the Aras River, the castle has held strategic importance throughout history due to its commanding position over natural passes. This area, part of the Soğanlı Mountains range, has historically controlled the communication routes between Erzurum and Kars.

Location of the Castle (Anadolu Agency)

History

During the Middle Ages, Micingirt functioned as the administrative center of the Aşağı Pasin region and retained this status until 1877. Historical sources refer to the castle as “Micingert,” and in some texts as “Becengert.” During military operations between the Seljuks and Georgians in 1202, the castle and its surroundings played a significant role. It is also recorded that the fortress was repaired during the Ilkhanid period and captured by Timur toward the end of the 14th century.

Architectural Features

The castle is a defensive structure approximately 300 meters in length and 15 meters in width. Its construction on a single rock mass provided natural defensive advantages. Inscriptions and architectural remains indicate that the structure had the characteristics of a Turkish fortress. Historical evidence suggests that it underwent repairs and expansions under various Turkish beyliks and administrations over time.

Micingirt Castle (Sarıkamış Municipality)

Archaeological Finds

Numerous pottery shards, carved rock spaces, caves, and examples of stone craftsmanship have been identified within and around the castle. Decorated relief stones, animal figures, and architectural elements from different periods demonstrate the region’s long-term habitation. Additionally, the remains of a kümbet and various stone sculptures in figurative forms provide insights into medieval stone art.

Relief Stones in the Castle (Anadolu Agency )

Current Condition

Micingirt Castle remains partially standing but is largely in ruins. The fortress and its surroundings are recognized as cultural heritage requiring protection, and continue to retain their historical significance through their stone craftsmanship and archaeological remains.