Zil Castle (Rize)

Located in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize province, this castle was built to secure the safety of historical trade routes. It is currently protected as a First-Degree Archaeological Site Area.

The castle is situated 15 kilometres south of the Çamlıhemşin district centre, built on a steep rock formation along the western slopes of the Fırtına Deresi. The castle stands at an elevation of 750 metres above sea level and approximately 100 metres above the riverbed.

^{Zil Kale (}Pexels⁾

Zil Kale consists of three main sections: outer walls, middle walls, and the inner citadel. Access to the castle is provided via a narrow path approximately 50 metres long from the north-west, through two distinct gates. Around the castle are eight towers and one observation tower.

Inside the castle are three primary structures:

• Guard Building: Measures approximately 12 by 6 metres.
• Chapel: A small place of worship.
• Main Tower: This four-storey tower stands 22 metres high. It has four windows facing the valley to the east and defensive embrasures on the other sides.

^{Zil Kale (}Anadolu Ajansı⁾

The castle is believed to have been originally constructed in the 5th or 6th century. During the Middle Ages, it ensured the security of an important caravan route extending as far as İspir and Bayburt. It was used during both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods for military defence and as accommodation for caravans. Restoration work carried out by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism was completed in 2011.

Zil Kale was constructed approximately 1500 years ago. For centuries, it formed part of a communication and security network alongside other strategic sites in the region, including Kale-i Bâlâ, Ciha Kalesi, and Kız Kalesi.