Kilitbahir Castle
Kilitbahir Kalesi
A clover-shaped fort built by Mehmed II on the European side of the strait in 1463, facing the Çanakkale fort across the water and known as the “Lock of the Sea.”
Kilitbahir means “Lock of the Sea.” Mehmed II, who conquered Constantinople, built it in 1462–1463. Together with the Çimenlik Castle across the water, it blockaded the narrowest point of the strait. The castle has a distinctive trefoil (heart-shaped) plan, with a seven-storey main tower at its centre, and outer towers were added in the 16th century under Suleiman the Magnificent. Restored and open as a museum, it lets visitors climb the walls for views over the strait and the Çanakkale town opposite. A small ferry from Çanakkale port takes about 15 minutes to the foot of the castle. Tickets cost about 3–6 euros (subject to on-site prices), and the museum is often closed on Mondays.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–17:00 (extended in summer); closed Mondays; check on site
Nearby sights
- Rumeli Mecidiye Bastion (Corporal Seyit)
- Çimenlik Castle & Naval Museum
- Çanakkale Clock Tower
- Dardanelles Ferry (Çanakkale–Eceabat/Kilitbahir)
- Aynalı Çarşı (Mirrored Bazaar)
- Trojan Horse & Kordon Waterfront
- Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park (Çanakkale Epic Promotion Center)
- Lone Pine Cemetery & Memorial