Adana: Breathtaking Views from Feke Castle
Adana has many beautiful little cities within its province. One of these remarkable cities is Feke (feh-kay). The Feke Castle is situated on top of a mountain that can be seen all the way at the bottom of the valley. Even in this remote area, we encountered two locals who helped us find the path up the mountain. We passed chicken coupes and wild goats along the path up to the castle. The view climbing up to the castle is astonishing, with the wide-open landscape that only expands further as we reached the heights of the castle.
This castle is rich in history. It was an Armenian castle, established in the 11th century with the help of Crusaders. They remained in rule for 275 years, during which this castle served as a military stronghold. Thus, the castle was built on such a high hill so that their view of the city enabled them to see enemies coming from a far distance. For a short time it was taken over by the Byzantines but quickly transferred back to the power of the Armenians.
The castle is one of the most well-preserved castles in the province of Adana. Many sections of the castle remain with complete walls and ceilings. Experiencing the grandeur of walking through this castle is truly surreal.
Within the castle, the more enclosed areas are cave-like in darkness, but the small windows and openings create beautiful streams of light into the darkness as the sun shines through them.
The view at the very top of the castle is breathtaking as you see the mountains deep into the horizon and the villages far below. The hike throughout the castle can be strenuous but is well worth it. I could not help myself but to pretend I was a princess exploring her own castle as I climbed over stones, peaked through every crevice, and gazed up each rising pathway.
Be sure to visit the Dark Church while you are in Feke! It is just down the road from the Feke Castle. You will see a sign that points one way to Feke Castle and the other way to the Dark Church.
To our friends in the West, keep looking East!
Lizzie Hibbard
Lizzie is a Kentucky Wildcat who loves art, hiking, and trying new foods (especially if that food is lamb). She takes a more thoughtful and deliberate path in life; some might even call her introverted. However, when the right mood hits, Lizzie takes the night off and “Liz,” as her friends affectionally call her, takes over the show. Lizzie studies at the University of Kentucky and is always ready for a snow cone.