Ortahisar Castle is a natural rock mass located in the Ortahisar town of Ürgüp district, Nevşehir province, Türkiye, which has a unique place among the geological formations of the Cappadocia region. This structure, reaching us from ancient times, has been used as both a defense and living area due to its historical and architectural features.

Physical Features and Structural System

Ortahisar Castle is approximately 86 meters high and consists of soft volcanic rocks called tufa. This geological structure allowed the interior and exterior of the castle to be carved and shaped by human hands. The castle rises like a vertical rock block and offers a dominant appearance compared to its surroundings. The multi-story spaces, tunnels, staircases, and rooms inside formed an interconnected system, serving both as shelter and protection.

Some of the rooms carved into the castle were used as storage; especially in Cappadocia, which has a rich agricultural and fruit-growing tradition, products such as apples, potatoes, and quinces were stored in these rooms. The passages and rooms within the rock mass are usable even in winter months, thanks to their natural insulation that balances temperature differences.

^{Ortahisar Castle (Kültür Portalı)}

History

Although the exact construction date of Ortahisar Castle is unknown, traces from the Roman and Byzantine periods have been found in the region. It is believed that the structure was used for seclusion and protection in the early Christian period, and later as a shelter by the local population. During the Byzantine period, its defensive function became prominent, and in the Ottoman period, settlement intensified around the castle, forming a town fabric. From the late 19th century onwards, Ortahisar, along with its surrounding stone houses and the castle, became one of the prominent centers of the region. Especially the houses on the eastern and western facades of the region form a unique silhouette with the castle.

Restoration and Current Status

Ortahisar Castle has been partially damaged over many years due to natural erosion and abandonment. However, within the scope of restoration works that started in the 2000s, the castle was opened to visitors with safety measures and brought into tourism in 2013. Visitors climbing to the castle can panoramically view Cappadocia's unique valleys and natural formations from the summit.

Thanks to the landscaping and promotional activities carried out by Ortahisar Municipality, the castle has become one of the important stops in Cappadocia tourism today. At the same time, the traditional stone houses, churches, rock-carved storages, and street texture around the castle reinforce the cultural value of the region.