Rising among lava rocks, 20 kilometers from the Chaldiran district of Van, the Arap Zengi Castle draws attention with its historical texture. The castle is built of basalt stones and is in a dominant position over the region. The castle walls include elements such as 11 rooms, a cistern, ramparts and a watchtower. Located in the Soğuksu District, this castle ruin impresses its visitors with its structures that still maintain their integrity.
Van Yuzuncu Yil University Faculty of Letters Dean and Archaeology Department Head Prof. Dr. Rafet Cavusoglu, when he examined the ruins, stated that they belonged to the Middle Ages. The bastions and ramparts of the triangular structure emphasize the strategic importance of the castle. Cavusoglu stated that these structures were in accordance with the architecture of the Middle Ages and were built with care. The thickness and height of the ramparts increased the confidence in the castle.
The rooms and cisterns inside the castle indicate living spaces and storage areas. Çavuşoğlu determined that the castle was built by the state and stated that the castle was used as a strategic center in times of war. The view from the castle is in an ideal position to observe the Chaldiran Plain.
Emphasizing that the Arap Zengi Castle should be introduced to tourism, Çavuşoğlu draws attention to the uniqueness of this historical artifact. It is important for visitors to see the castle and discover this historical structure. The Arap Zengi Castle should be protected and promoted as part of the cultural and historical richness of the region.
