Heptapyrgion (Yedi Kule)
Επταπύργιο
The Byzantine-Ottoman citadel at the highest point of the upper town. It served as a prison until 1989, and visitors can now explore its battlements and cells.
Heptapyrgion stands at the highest point of the northern end of the city walls. It was built in the Byzantine period and expanded after the Ottomans captured the city in 1431. It is known in Turkish as Yedi Kule. From the 19th century it was used as a prison until 1989, and many political prisoners were held here. It is now part of the World Heritage Site. You can stroll along the battlements and look out over the distance, and the interior has displays on the history of the prison. Admission is free, and it is often closed on Tuesdays.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–15:30 (often closed Tuesdays)
Nearby sights
- Trigonion Tower & Byzantine Walls
- Vlatadon Monastery
- Hosios David (Latomou Monastery)
- Ano Poli (Upper Town)
- Atatürk Museum
- Rotunda of Galerius
- Church of Saint Demetrius
- Arch of Galerius (Kamara)