Payas Castle
Payas Castle, built by the Genoese in the 1200s, was used by other civilizations in the city after the Genoese. The castle is also called "Gin Castle". The castle on the holy pilgrimage routes belonged to the templars to protect the Christians who went on pilgrimage. Payas Castle, which came under the rule of the Ottomans during the Egypt Campaign of Yavuz Sultan Selim, also played an important role in the conquest of Cyprus. The castle was strengthened with a 4-year study at the request of the sultan after the Ottoman rule. The castle, which is also mentioned in Evliya Çelebi's work, is mentioned as a "solid castle". The castle was also used as a juvenile prison in the 18th century. The castle is located next to the Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Complex, and Mimar Sinan, who built the complex, made a plan for the building to be perceived as a whole with the castle. The castle is located 700 meters from the shore. Payas Castle is one of the places of great importance among the historical monuments in Hatay. Being close to many historical buildings also makes this place attractive. For this reason, if you have come to Hatay, we recommend that you add this important historical monument to your Hatay travel list.
