Payas beach II

This site holds significant value as a historical artifact and structure. Unfortunately, it has deteriorated greatly due to neglect and indifference. The local government and the monuments board must prioritize its preservation.

The place is unfortunately used as a public toilet, making it impossible to enter due to the overwhelming smell. I wouldn't recommend going inside. However, the historical buildings are exceptionally well preserved. 😁😁

The second military structure, located very close to the beach in Payas, is an observation tower built in 1577 to protect the harbour. This tower is understood to be the final piece in the effort to establish an Ottoman city in Payas. Essentially, considering its construction date, the tower represents the last major structure of the core settlement in Payas, following the pier, customs, shipyard, and social complex. Due to its proximity to the port, it also served as a customs gate. Built in 1577 between the castle and the harbour, this structure, formerly known as "Iskele Castle," is a two-storey police station tower with a 360-degree field of view. It is understood to be the final link in the effort to create an Ottoman city. In other words, considering its construction date, the tower is the last major structure of the core settlement in Payas, following the pier, customs, shipyard, and social complex. After the redoubts (fortifications built separately and reinforced with weapons) were constructed in the harbour, this tower was built at a vantage point overlooking the harbour to resist enemy ship attacks and bolster the defense of Payas Castle. In 975 A.H./1577 A.D., Babiali issued an instruction to Uzeyr Bey and his Kadi to build a tower in the style of the Maiden's Tower, located opposite the Palace Cape in Istanbul, at a suitable location in the port, and to equip it with four cannons and sufficient fortifications. Following this decree, the construction of the castle began. Evliya Çelebi, who visited Payas in the 17th century, described his observations as follows: “The pier tower is a round and solid tower, and the castle guards watch over it day and night. Because customs is here.” Cin Kule has been repaired and opened to tourism. There is a nice cafeteria inside where you can sit and chat about the comings and goings.

Zzzzz

Charming cafe nestled in a beautifully restored castle. Definitely worth a visit.