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The long-closed Oltu Castle, a Urartian-era fortress in Erzurum’s Oltu district, is set to undergo extensive restoration in the coming months.
Constructed in the fourth century B.C.E., the castle occupies approximately 3,000 square meters atop cliffs, drawing attention for both its architectural significance and commanding location.
Over time, structural deterioration led authorities to restrict public access, and the site has remained closed for 26 years. During the Ottoman period, the castle also functioned briefly as a caravanserai.
The restoration initiative is part of the Erzurum Oltu Castle Restoration and Tourism Development Project, supported by the Northeastern Anatolia Development Agency (KUDAKA) under its Attraction Centers Support Program.
The project will be coordinated by Oltu Municipality and aims to restore the castle in accordance with its original design, ensure visitor safety, and reopen the site to tourism.
Speaking to the press, Oltu Mayor Adem Celebi highlighted the historical and personal significance of the castle.
“I grew up around this castle, and restoring it is a matter of great pride. Its position on a massive natural rock formation in the heart of the city makes it unique among Turkish fortresses,” Celebi stated. He added that the restoration is expected to take approximately two years.
Mayor Celebi also noted that the municipality has initiated the acquisition of adjacent lands to restore nearby Seljuk-era baths, aiming to create an integrated cultural and tourism destination.
The project will include visitor-friendly areas within the castle and connections to surrounding historical sites, ensuring an enriching experience for tourists.
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