Alanya Red Tower

In Alanya , a popular tourist destination in Antalya, the Kızılkule ( Red Tower), rising at the entrance to the harbor, is one of the most impressive examples of Seljuk naval defense architecture. Named after its red-brick facade, this monumental structure, with its nearly 800-year history, leaves its mark on the city's skyline.

⏳ Historical Background

The tower was built in 1226 by order of the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I. Its architect was Abu Ali Reha al-Kettani, who was brought from Aleppo. The aim was to transform Alanya into a strong naval base and protect the harbor from attacks from the sea.

The Red Tower was a crucial component of the strategic defense line that secured the Seljuk State's military and commercial presence in the Mediterranean.

🏛️ Architectural Features

• Octagonal plan design

• 33 meters high

• Approximately 29 meters in diameter

• Five-story building

• Combination of red brick and cut stone.

The interior of the tower contains defensive rooms, battlements, and openings used against the enemy. The central cistern system was designed to meet water needs during sieges. These details clearly demonstrate the advanced level of Seljuk engineering.

🎭 Red Tower Today

Today, the building serves as a museum displaying ethnographic artifacts. Related to the region:

• Traditional handicrafts

• Textile samples

• Maritime objects

• Historical remains

It is open to visitors. Those who go to the top floor are greeted with a panoramic view of Alanya Harbor and the Mediterranean Sea; this spot is very popular for taking photographs.

🌅 Sunset Experience

The sunset at Kızılkule (Red Tower) creates a unique atmosphere. As the sun approaches the horizon, the tower takes on shades of red and orange. The combination of the sea, the harbor, and the historical architecture creates a romantic and impressive scene. The area around the harbor is particularly lively on summer evenings.

⛵ Shipyard and Surroundings

Located right next to the tower, the Alanya Shipyard is one of the important maritime structures of the Seljuk period. With its five-bay plan, it is considered one of the rare examples of medieval Mediterranean shipyard architecture. The Kızılkule (Red Tower) and the shipyard are both on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Also within walking distance:

• Alanya Castle

• Suleymaniye Mosque

• Historic city walls

• Restaurants around the harbor

It is found.

📍 Visit Information

Kızılkule (Red Tower) is easily accessible on foot from Alanya city center. It is located right in the heart of the historical bazaar and harbor area. It offers a rich experience both culturally and visually.

✨ Why You Should See It

The Red Tower is not merely a defensive structure; it is a symbolic heritage that brings together the Seljuk maritime vision, the history of Alanya, and the unique view of the Mediterranean.

This is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience history firsthand and discover Alanya's most iconic structure.

🎫 You can make a reservation through our website to get detailed information about our cultural tours and activities in Alanya.