Kozan Castle

Kozan (Sis) Castle, located in the city center of Kozan, attracting attention with its magnificence and deep history, is one of the fascinating castles of Çukurova.

Located in the city center of Kozan, the Kozan (Sis) Castle stands out among the magnificent examples of castles in Çukurova, both for its grandeur and majesty, and for the history it hides like a secret.

Throughout history, Kozan, with its powerful civilizations, has frequently made a name for itself on the most fertile lands of Çukurova. Its climate and living conditions have made it a homeland for mankind throughout history. The civilizations of Anavarza, Karasis, and Kozan (Sis) Castles have thrived within its embrace.

The Kozan (Sis) Castle, with its splendor and the history it conceals like a mystery, is among the magnificent examples of castles in Çukurova. Although it is not known exactly when and by whom the castle was built, some sources attribute its construction to the Assyrians, while it is also thought that the Hittites, who ruled the region for nearly 700 years, may have built the castle.

Along the castle road, there are wooden and stone mansions that integrate with the atmosphere of the city. The Hoş Kadem Mosque on Köksal Street and Yaver's Mansion, restored by the municipality, blend with the castle.

The castle, forming the fourth link of the mountain castle chain, was built in two groups with most of its 44 towers and bastions still standing today. There is an inner castle (Ahmedek) on the hill in the southern part. The castle features cellars and secret passages accessed by 20-30 step staircases. The castle, consisting of six sections including the inner castle, is tightly closed with gates connecting all sections.

The two separate sections of the castle, north and south, are connected by a wall. The outer wall, consisting of a second layer, surrounds the church, library, guesthouse, and monk cells belonging to the Armenian Catholicosate.

The road, opened in 1952 and extending up to the main entrance gate of the castle, is now asphalted. Despite being in quite a sturdy condition, the castle is in need of assistance. Currently, a recreation project is being prepared by the municipality, and the castle deserves to be brought into tourism.

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  • Hiking Boot
    Trekking boots are designed with different features for short, medium, and long-distance hikes. Especially for long-distance hikes like Adanus Yolu, the boot should provide excellent ventilation. It should also offer ankle support and protection while being lightweight and flexible. Boots made from non-slip materials should be preferred, and those that can wick sweat and moisture while being waterproof enhance hiking comfort. In summer, boots made from Cordura fabric and suede leather are often the best options. In winter, waterproof, sturdy-soled, and treaded boots should be preferred.

    Backpack
    The backpack is one of the most important pieces of equipment for hiking. Smaller backpacks are usually preferred in summer, while slightly larger ones are chosen in winter. Especially for long hikes, backpacks with a capacity of 60 liters or more should be used. The backpack should have special pockets for water bottles or canteens on the sides. When choosing a backpack, consider easy access to necessary items and practical use. Additionally, adjustable straps for the back, even weight distribution between the back and hips, and backpacks that provide lumbar support should be preferred. A quality backpack can last for years, so investing in one can lead to a more comfortable hiking experience.

    Trekking Poles
    Using trekking poles not only prevents joint injuries but also helps distribute the load between the lower and upper parts of the body more evenly, allowing for more efficient energy use and longer periods of movement without fatigue.

    Rain Gear
    The variable nature of Adanus Yolu creates diverse weather conditions. The possibility of rain should always be considered in spring, and necessary equipment should be prepared. In winter, where the likelihood of rain is high, wearing waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear is important. Additionally, accessing current weather information and planning your route accordingly can be beneficial.

    Headlamp
    The importance of light is significant after setting up a tent, especially during night hikes. A headlamp, in particular, is practical as it allows you to use your hands freely, especially for night hikes. What's your preference, do you hike more during the day or at night?

    Camping Tent
    Another essential equipment for trekking activities is camping tents. If you prefer camping during your activity, you should have a lightweight, waterproof, and easy-to-pack tent with you. This will enhance the quality of your hiking experience.

    Sleeping Mat
    To improve the quality of your trekking activity, you should pay attention to the quality of your sleep at night. You should always create a layer between yourself and the ground, and the best way to do this is with a sleeping mat. The better the quality of your mat, the more comfortable you'll be. In addition to traditional mats, inflatable mats are also available.

    Sleeping Bag
    Adanus Yolu consists of both sea-level paths and high-altitude areas. Even if you're on the southern shores, the temperature can vary significantly between forest and mountain air. A lightweight sleeping bag rated between -5 to 20 degrees Celsius or 0 to 15 degrees Celsius will provide you with confidence.

    First Aid Kit
    Every backpack should contain necessary first aid materials. The most important items include an emergency first aid guidebook, bandages, iodine solution, aspirin, burn cream, pain relievers, scissors, safety pins, adhesive bandages, gauze pads, rubber bands for stopping bleeding, etc.

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    Likya Yolu consists of flat paths as well as areas with dense shrubbery. To prevent scratches on your legs, you should have quick-drying and practical pants, as well as shorts for flat paths. Additionally, having spare clothing for each day of your hike will always be advantageous.

  • Absolutely do not start a fire! The majority of the area is covered with trees.

    Take your trash with you and carry it to the next settlement's trash point.

    Do not leave anything behind except your footprints.

    Do not mark outside of the orange markings. You can create cairns (stacks of rocks) where you think it's necessary.

    Carry enough water with you (at least 2 liters, more if you are camping).

    Signs and trails in some areas may have been damaged due to natural causes, intentionally, or due to new road works. In these areas with very few hikers, you can use a GPS device or smartphones to follow coordinates to avoid getting lost

  • The best time for hiking is during the cool, vibrant seasons of spring and autumn when the surroundings are colorful. The summer season is too hot for hiking in this area.

    Prefer hiking in a team. An ideal team size is at least three people. It makes intervention easier in emergencies and ensures a more enjoyable experience.

    Know yourself well! If you haven't done multi-day hikes before, test yourself on short trails in your area.

    Know your partner well! If possible, go on at least a one-day hike or camp with your potential hiking partner beforehand. Knowing each other's habits will be very beneficial during long hikes!

    Test your equipment! Make sure to test any new gear before hitting the trail. Using brand-new shoes on such a long route is a mistake. First, test your equipment on simpler hikes.