Softa Castle

Softa Castle is a historical structure located in the Bozyazı district of Mersin Province, Türkiye. Positioned on a hill 140 meters high to the east of the district center, the castle has been used for defensive purposes by various empires and states since antiquity. It is considered one of the important historical fortresses in the region.

Historical Development

Throughout history, the castle has been utilized by different civilizations. Known as "Sycae" in ancient times, it served defensive functions during the Roman and Byzantine periods. In the 13th century, it was captured by the Anatolian Seljuk commander Ertokuş Bey. Subsequently, it came under the control of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia and the Karamanid Beylik. In the 15th century, it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire and is associated with the period of Ottoman vizier Gedik Ahmet Pasha in the 1470s according to official sources.

Architectural Features

Softa Castle covers a large area surrounded by oval-shaped walls. The entrance gate is located in the middle of the western walls and is reinforced with an intermediate space to enhance its defense capacity. The structure consists of two main sections: the outer and inner castles. On the southern slope, there is a two-story tomb built in a style similar to those found in Anemurium Ancient City. This tomb has a vaulted ceiling, though its top covering has collapsed. Near the walls, remains of a bathhouse from the Late Roman period can be found. There are also surviving walls of a building believed to have served as a mosque. Numerous plastered tombs and cisterns from the Roman and Byzantine eras are present within the castle.

Conservation and Tourism Efforts

Efforts are underway by the Bozyazı District Governorship to restore Softa Castle and open it to tourism. Due to the castle’s difficult accessibility, projects are planned to install lighting, construct stairways, and improve the surrounding landscape. The restoration aims to preserve the historical structure in line with its original form while avoiding environmental damage. The castle offers expansive views of the Mediterranean landscape from its location.