Bozcaada Castle
Bozcaada Kalesi
A medieval fortress guarding the harbor, rebuilt under Byzantine, Venetian, Genoese, and Ottoman rule, with walls offering views over the bay and the town.
Bozcaada Castle stands on the north side of the harbor. It was first built by the Byzantines, then reinforced by the Venetians and Genoese. The main structure that survives today was rebuilt on the orders of Mehmed II after the Ottoman conquest in 1455, making it one of the best-preserved coastal defense castles in Turkey. Inside you'll find a moat, double walls, the remains of a small mosque, and archaeological displays. Climbing the walls gives you views over the ferry terminal, fishing boats, and the Greek quarter. Admission is inexpensive. It may be closed on Mondays, and it's a 3-minute walk from the ferry landing.
Opening hours
09:00–19:00 (longer in summer, shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Greek Quarter & Koimesis Church
- Bozcaada Local History Museum
- Bozcaada Wineries (Corvus, Talay)
- Sulubahçe Beach
- Ayazma Monastery
- Ayazma Beach
- Polente Lighthouse