Babakale Castle
Discover Babakale Castle, the westernmost point of Asia, offering historic Ottoman architecture and breathtaking Aegean Sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Babakale Castle
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Babakale Castle, the westernmost point of Asia, offering historic Ottoman architecture and breathtaking Aegean Sea views.
"The westernmost point of Asia! It's a small village with a port, and you go through the castle and climb up where you have an excellent view of the western sea!"
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The castle and village have uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
Capture the sunset :camera_with_flash:
The views from the castle walls, especially at sunset, are breathtaking. Don't miss it!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Babakale Castle
Westernmost tip of the Asian continent
Explore the historic Ottoman castle offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Greek islands.
Babakale Harbor
Below the castle
A charming fishing village with a picturesque harbor, perfect for a relaxed stroll and soaking in local life.
Westernmost Point of Asia Certificate
Near the harbor
Get a certificate to commemorate your visit to the furthest western point of the Asian continent.
Babakale Lighthouse
Coastal point
A beacon of light offering dramatic coastal scenery and a sense of being at the edge of the world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Babakale
Navigating Babakale Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The castle and village have uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
Capture the sunset :camera_with_flash:
The views from the castle walls, especially at sunset, are breathtaking. Don't miss it!
Get your certificate! :scroll:
Prove you've been to the westernmost point of Asia with a special certificate from the headman's office.
Explore the harbor :fishing_boat:
Wander through the charming fishing village and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The castle and village have uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
Capture the sunset :camera_with_flash:
The views from the castle walls, especially at sunset, are breathtaking. Don't miss it!
Get your certificate! :scroll:
Prove you've been to the westernmost point of Asia with a special certificate from the headman's office.
Explore the harbor :fishing_boat:
Wander through the charming fishing village and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
Respect local customs :pray:
Sailors traditionally throw bread into the sea as a sign of respect for Latif Baba.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Babakale Castle for its stunning location at the westernmost point of Asia and the breathtaking sea views, especially at sunset. The historical significance of the Ottoman castle and the charm of the fishing village are also frequently highlighted. However, some reviewers note that the site could benefit from better maintenance and that certain modern additions, like shipping containers, detract from the atmosphere.
"The westernmost point of Asia! It's a small village with a port, and you go through the castle and climb up where you have an excellent view of the western sea! Amazingly, it also has tombs down by the sea and to the right as well, which leave a certain impression."
Sibel Tuna
"History of Babakale Castle
Sultan III. When the ship Ahmet was on was hit by a storm on the way back from a voyage, the ship entered the Babakale port and stayed in the port until the storm passed. Meeting with his subjects during this time, the Sultan learns that the biggest complaint of the people is pirate harassment. The Sultan accepts the wishes of the people and issues an edict for the construction of the castle. It was declared in the edict that the captives and prisoners who would work voluntarily in the construction of the castle would be released upon completion of the castle. Behramkale (Assos) stones were used in the construction of the castle, which was built under the supervision of Vizier Kaptan Mustafa Pasha in 1725.
The castle, which was known as Hırz-ül Bahir (Sea Shelter, Sea Talisman, Talisman Castle) in its early days, takes its current name from Latif Baba, the crewman of Piri Reis, who was buried there.
It is an old custom for sailors to throw bread into the sea as respect for Latif Baba while passing by.
Babakale history
Famous for being the westernmost tip of the Asian continent, Babakale is a charming fishing village dating back to the Ottoman Empire.
We come across the first information about the location of the village in Piri Reis' Kitab-ı Bahriye. In Kitab-ı Bahriye, the grave of a saint named Emek Yemez Baba, located at the tip of a cape, is mentioned.
Another rumor: "Sultan Baba, known as a saint in the Ottoman ships that had to anchor in front of the village due to the wind, died and was buried here, and later sailors called it Bababurnu when passing through here." Researchers associate Babakale Village with Admiral Kaymak Mustafa Pasha, the son-in-law of Nevşehirli Damat İbrahim Pasha, the famous grand vizier of the Tulip Era. It is understood from the endowment certificate of the pasha, who was born in Gallipoli, that has survived to this day, that Mustafa Pasha had a bath and a mosque built inside the castle, a bath, a mosque, shops and houses outside, and buildings in the port.
Today, a mosque, bathhouse and fountains can be seen outside the castle, but not much remains of the other buildings. The inscriptions on the existing buildings provide information about the village and the buildings.
In Babakale, which is the last point where the Asian continent ends and was once frequented by pirates, a certificate is given by the headman's office to prove that you are here. Just like it is given in Capo da Roca in Portugal, the last point where Europe ends. The certificate says:
Awarded for visiting Babakale.
He honored us with his arrival and brought love.
This is the westernmost point of Asia and Turkey.
Here the land ends and the beautiful Aegean sea begins, taking people to the land of historical fairy tales.
The lighthouse at the tip of Asia sends the lights of love and friendship to the whole world.
Our guest and we will never forget each other.
We send greetings wherever he goes and invite everyone to Babakale with love."
John Moe
"Babakale is the furthest front of the continent Asia. Exactly. And believe you don't get disappointed when you arrive this small town where you are welcomed by the Ottoman Castle and small port. Actually this farthest end is somewhat hiding behind the town Gulpinar, some 10 km away. First you pass the summerhouses area where they are situated on a cliff. This is a disappointment though. I think they look quite ugly and unfitting. But then comes the majestic rocky steep sea cliffs. Such an overwhelming panoramic scene. We climbed to castle's walls and watched the sunset, saluting the Greek island Lesvos. There are a number of containers just in front of the castle which spoil the atmosphere very badly. They should be taken away immediately. I am going to be honest that we could not stay there much since we were 2 hours away from.the city and I did not want to be late at home."
Elif Cigdem Sahin Sirius
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Babakale Castle from Çanakkale, you'll typically drive south along the coast. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Renting a car is the most convenient option, allowing you to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving.
Public transport to Babakale is limited. You might be able to take a bus from Çanakkale to Ayvacık and then a local dolmuş (minibus) to Babakale, but schedules can be infrequent. It's advisable to check current routes and timings beforehand.
For the best photography opportunities, driving is recommended. This allows you to control your schedule and stop for shots of the coastline and the castle from various angles. Consider visiting during the golden hours for optimal lighting.
Yes, there are usually parking areas available near the harbor and the entrance to the village. During peak season, these can fill up, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
While Babakale has a harbor, it's primarily a fishing port. Organized boat tours might visit, but it's not a common mode of transport for independent travelers. Historically, it was a refuge for ships.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village and the general area around Babakale Castle is typically free. However, access to specific historical structures within the castle complex might have a small entrance fee, though this can vary. Some visitors have noted a small fee for museum-like exhibits.
Babakale Castle and the surrounding village are generally accessible throughout the day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and explore safely. The lighthouse operates as a navigational aid.
There might be a small administrative fee for the certificate at the headman's office, but it's generally very affordable. It's a unique souvenir to commemorate your visit.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised. However, local guides might be available in the village, or you can explore independently using information from online resources and your own observations.
Yes, Babakale Castle and the village are accessible year-round. However, visiting during the spring and autumn offers the most pleasant weather conditions for exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Babakale Castle, you can explore the historic fortifications, enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, and visit the charming fishing village below. It's a great spot for photography and experiencing the westernmost point of Asia.
The castle walls offer stunning vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Babakale can be enjoyable for families, but supervision is needed due to the rocky terrain and proximity to the sea. The historical aspect and the novelty of being at the edge of the continent can be engaging for older children.
Built in the 18th century under Sultan III. Ahmet, the castle was intended to protect the villagers from pirate raids. It's a testament to Ottoman maritime history and strategic coastal defense.
While there aren't designated hiking trails, you can explore the coastline and the paths around the castle and village. The terrain can be rugged, so be prepared for uneven surfaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Babakale has several small restaurants and cafes, particularly around the harbor. They typically serve fresh seafood and local Turkish dishes. Options might be limited, especially outside of peak season.
You can expect delicious, fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. Traditional Turkish mezes and other local specialties are also commonly available.
Yes, you can purchase supplies from local shops and enjoy a picnic with a view. The coastal areas offer scenic spots, but be mindful of any local regulations regarding picnicking.
While seafood is prominent, many Turkish restaurants offer vegetarian options like mezes, salads, and vegetable-based dishes. It's always a good idea to ask about vegan options.
Most eateries operate during daylight hours and into the early evening. It's advisable to check specific opening times, especially if visiting outside of the main tourist season.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing Babakale Castle and its surroundings.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and the castle. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the castle or distant islands. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing the sea and sky.
Drone regulations can be strict in Turkey. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone for aerial photography.
The castle ramparts, the harbor with fishing boats, the lighthouse, and the dramatic sea cliffs are all highly photogenic.
Focus on wide shots of the sea meeting the land, the castle overlooking the water, and perhaps include the certificate in a creative shot to emphasize the location's significance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited, especially outside peak hours. The relaxed atmosphere of the fishing village can be a pleasant change of pace. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of space for children to explore under supervision.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 The Ottoman castle provides a historical foreground against the vast Aegean Sea, with views extending to Greek islands like Lesbos.+1For drone enthusiasts, ensure you're aware of and comply with all Turkish drone regulations. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for capturing the expansive sea views, while telephoto lenses can be used for details on the castle architecture or distant horizons. The unique 'westernmost point' certificate can also be incorporated into creative shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers
Embrace the adventure of reaching the edge of the continent. The rugged terrain and the historical significance of Babakale make it a rewarding destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Be prepared for potentially unpaved roads in some areas and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legend of Babakale Castle
The castle's construction utilized stones from the ancient city of Behramkale (Assos) and was overseen by Vizier Kaptan Mustafa Pasha in 1725. Initially known as Hızır-ül Bahir, meaning 'Sea Shelter' or 'Talisman Castle,' it later adopted the name Babakale. This name is believed to derive from Latif Baba, a crew member of the famed cartographer Piri Reis, whose tomb is located nearby. An old maritime custom of sailors throwing bread into the sea as a sign of respect for Latif Baba persists to this day, a poignant connection to the site's past.
Today, while much of the original complex has weathered the centuries, remnants of its past grandeur remain. Inscriptions on existing structures offer glimpses into the village's history. The castle stands not just as a historical monument but as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the strategic importance of this coastal outpost. Its location, once a haven and a defense point, continues to draw visitors seeking a connection to history and the dramatic beauty of the Aegean coast.
Experiencing Babakale: Beyond the Castle Walls
The harbor is a hub of local activity, where you can observe fishermen tending to their nets and boats, offering a glimpse into the authentic maritime lifestyle that has defined Babakale for centuries. The relaxed pace of life here is a welcome contrast to busier tourist spots.For those seeking a unique memento, Babakale offers the opportunity to receive a certificate commemorating your visit to the westernmost point of Asia. This tradition, similar to that at Cabo da Roca in Portugal, adds a fun and memorable element to the trip. The certificate, issued by the headman's office, proudly declares your presence at this significant geographical marker.
Beyond the historical and cultural aspects, Babakale's natural beauty is undeniable. The dramatic sea cliffs and the vast expanse of the Aegean Sea provide a stunning backdrop. The Babakale Lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the coast, its beam a guiding light across the waters. Whether you're enjoying the sunset from the castle walls or simply taking in the sea breeze, Babakale offers a serene and picturesque escape.
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