Perched majestically on the Anatolian side of the Istanbul Strait, towards the Black Sea exit, the Yoros Castle in Anadolu Kavagi stands as a sentinel of history, strategically positioned to command the entrance of the strait alongside the Imros Castle. This architectural marvel, born from the need to oversee the gateway to the Bosphorus, has evolved into a popular weekend destination in Istanbul, offering not just a glimpse into the past but a spectacular venue for breakfast or a meal, accompanied by the breathtaking backdrop of the Bosphorus.

Known also as the Genoese Castle, Yoros Castle has its roots in the Byzantine era, providing vantage points to behold both the splendors of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus in all their glory. The castle, with its imposing silhouette against the skyline, invites visitors to traverse the realms of time while soaking in the mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscapes.

Venture into Yoros Castle, and you’ll find yourself not only exploring the echoes of Byzantine history but also reveling in panoramic vistas that transcend the ordinary. As the weekend sun bathes the castle in a warm glow, it becomes a haven where the narratives of the past harmonize with the serenity of the present.

A trip to Yoros Castle isn’t just a historical escapade; it’s an immersive experience where the whispers of time echo against the backdrop of the majestic Istanbul Strait.

History

Nestled atop a hill that commands the Bosporus, the Yoros Castle stretches 500 meters in length and spans 60-130 meters in width. While the exact date of its construction remains elusive, historical whispers suggest that the castle emerged during the Palaeologos Dynasty in the Byzantine era.

This fortress, standing proudly alongside its counterpart, the Imros Castle in Rumeli Kavagi on the opposite shore, was strategically erected to control the entrance of the Istanbul Strait.

Despite being commonly referred to as a Genoese castle, historical accounts reveal that Yoros Castle was, in fact, built by the Byzantines during their reign, falling under Genoese control in 1352 and later reclaimed by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1452 after the conquest of Istanbul.

Post the conquest, Sultan II. Bayezid undertook the restoration of the castle, embellishing it with the Yoros Castle Mosque. In subsequent years, the castle’s custodian, Mehmed Aga, added to its features by commissioning the construction of a hammam.

At the summit of Yoros Castle, nestled between two semicircular towers, lies a gateway that opens onto the landscape. Adorning the outer faces of these towers are meticulously crafted crosses, and amid the arms of the crosses, Greek inscriptions delineate the attributes and name of Jesus Christ.

While time has worn away many traces of Yoros Castle, ongoing archaeological and restoration efforts since 2010 aim to unearth and preserve the rich history embedded within its walls, where echoes of empires still linger.

Yoros Castle Cafe & Restaurant

Nestled just beside the Yoros Castle, the Yoros Castle Cafe and Restaurant stand as an idyllic retreat for those seeking respite from the urban hustle and bustle of Istanbul. With its spectacular Bosphorus panorama, it offers a serene escape for weekend sojourns, allowing guests to unwind in a natural setting while savoring delightful culinary experiences.

From hearty breakfast spreads to daily offerings of fresh seafood and succulent meats, the menu at Yoros Castle Cafe and Restaurant caters to diverse palates. The venue operates between 03:00 and 23:30, ensuring an extensive timeframe for visitors to revel in the tranquility and culinary delights.

For inquiries, contact them at Tel: 0216 216 320 20 56. Immerse yourself in the embrace of nature and history, accompanied by delectable treats at this haven overlooking the enchanting Bosphorus.

How to get to Yoros Castle?

To reach Yoros Castle, your first step is to get to Anadolu Kavagi. For those opting for sea transportation, the castle is conveniently located just around 850 meters from Anadolu Kavağı Ferry Pier.

Public ferry lines, especially those on the Anadolu Kavağı – Üsküdar route and the Bosphorus route, provide a delightful way to reach this breathtaking castle.

For those choosing land travel, the most practical route is to first get to Üsküdar and then take the IETT Municipal Buses or minibusses heading to Beykoz.

From Üsküdar, you can use the 15A municipal buses to Anadolu Kavağı.

If you’re arriving by car, take the TEM highway and enter from Beykoz-Kavacık exit. Follow the new road for about 15 minutes, or exit from Üsküdar and take the coastal road passing through Beylerbeyi, Kanlıca, and Beykoz to reach Anadolu Kavağı in approximately 35 kilometers.

Upon reaching Anadolu Kavağı, a picturesque road leads to Yoros Castle with free parking available. Embrace the scenic journey and enjoy the tranquility of nature.