Yilankale, or better known as Snake Castle, has a mysterious atmosphere and an evil reputation for snakes and sorcery, no doubt derived from its setting above the muddy waters of the Ceyhan River and the craggy ridge upon which it stands. This castle is rather near the American Air Base in Adana and is usually one of the first to visit. No need to worry about running into snakes. I have visited it numerous times and have yet to see even one snake! Snake castle is one of the best and most complete castles in Cicilia.

Snake castle is an outstanding example of Armenian workmanship. It is set on the summit of a rock ridge. Although steep, this ridge is by no means unclimable by persistent attackers; however, they will continually find themselves pushed out and put in perfect position to be assailed by archers above. In a sense, the castle defends itself as it twists and turns about its base.

A. Gate to Lower Ward
B. Gate to Middle Ward
C. Gate to Upper Ward
D. Cistern
E. Chapel
X. Postern Gate

A jewel of military architecture, Snake castle is compiled of a series of three wards on different levels and super defenses at the gates of each. The access to the lower wards is through an Armenian double arch complete with hales for rock and pitch. The gate to the upper ward is deep between two fine towers and makes two right turns, once again making it impossible to use mechanical siege equipment. The upper ward has a chapel with a fresco, subterranean cistern with steps into it, living quarters and a narrow postern gate between two towers. In fact, these seven horseshoe towers (straight sides with round fronts) are a remarkable achievement.

The tower's shape is charastically Armenian, as is thier masonry. The large, squared and bossed stones are neatly placed and bonded. Bold projection enables a defender to outflank an attacker from above, while the splayed arrow slits allow the archer greater mobility in covering the ground.

The two entrance towers are a formidable unit, linked by a gallery above which has no communication whatsoever with the other curtain wall. The two towers at the opposite end of the ridge are similarly isolated. Snake castle shared intervisibility with as many as five other castles in and about the Cilician plain.

Nothing is known of Snake castle's history. Although not documented as such, it was probably a royal castle at the time of the Crusades. The similarity of its architecture to neighboring Sis and Tumlu Castles leads one to venture that it was built by Leo II as well. Its demise is equally mysterious. There is no evidence of its having been besieged. Castle mentality was a strange thing...often a seemingly impregnable fortress would capitulate early in a siege anticipating a lesser fate than that which might befall them if they held out.

I always enjoyed visiting this castle. The view was terrific and the peace and quiet almost overwhelming. The sense of history is all around you. Since this castle was not on the "tourist" paths, you could just wander around all you wanted and be the only ones there. Well, almost the only ones! There were always some village boys wanting to be your tour guide for an American Soda and of course, goats all around. And, it was a climb, but well worth it. Remember...there is no shame in sitting down and taking a break along the way...the view is wonderful the entire way up.

Now....on with the photographic tour! Click here and you'll be on your way to Snake Castle!

Here are the ones I am working on:

-- Castle By the Sea

-- Heaven and Hell...more a ruined city than just a castle