History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Rising on steep volcanic cliffs to the west of Kahramankazan, Asarkaya Castle is a fortified observation castle that has controlled the strategic Ova Stream valley and historical caravan routes since the Iron Age, Galatian and Roman periods. Stepped water cisterns, watchtowers and rock tomb niches carved into the rocks have survived to the present day. Local legends say that secret tunnels under the castle lead down to the valley and that soldiers secretly carried supplies from the valley against sieges in the past. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
The altitude is 1,050 meters. It is a steep rocky plateau elevation overlooking the Ova Stream basin; It is surrounded by steppe vegetation and oak bushes. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:It is an open-air archaeological site and the visit is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days:It can be visited freely in daylight 7 days a week.•Rules, Safety and Baby Stroller/Disabled Access: Since it is a steep rocky climbing track, sturdy walking shoes should be worn and cliff edges should be taken into consideration. The summit path is not suitable for strollers and disabled vehicles.•Facilities and Facilities:It is a natural archaeological site; There are no commercial facilities, you must come prepared. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Asarkaya location, Kahramankazan / Ankara.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is approximately 10 km from the center of Kahramankazan; It can be easily reached by passenger car or off-road vehicle via a stabilized mountain road.•Real Public Transportation Information: Transportation is provided by hiking tours or taxi from the town center.•Parking Availability:Free parking is available in the open plains at the foot of the castle. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photo Spots and Frames:The carved rock cisterns at the summit, the steep city walls ruins and the 360-degree panoramic view embracing the Kazan Plain provide wonderful photographs.•Light and Shooting Hours:The red tones gained by the rocks in the afternoon and near sunset are magnificent.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:After the climb, you should have a countryside picnic with natural highland honey and tulum cheese obtained from Kazan villages.