This is Maiden’s Castle, or Deniz kalesi, which is on an island in the Mediterranean just off the Turquoise Coast in the Mersin Province of Turkey. My boyfriend and I were lucky enough to camp here during our trip through Europe and the Middle East. It was surreal waking up to this view.
According to Wiki, the castle was probably built by Alexios I Komnenos of the Byzantine Empire after the First Crusade. It was rebuilt or repaired during the reign of Leo I of the Cilician Kingdom of Armenia in 1199.
Can’t remember why we didn’t visit the castle, or if it was even open to tours. Anyone been there?
I have to say the Turquoise Coast was one of the highlights of our trip. Incredibly beautiful.
Great weekend, everyone.
{carole}
Pearls & Prose 
A very beautiful spot! I have never been there! Happy weekend, dear Carole!
Thank you, Ann!
Lovely. I love both Turkey and Greece.
Me too, Caroline. So much beauty.
Wow, what a view to wake up to indeed.
It really was.
You can visit KizKalesi. It costs about 10TL and there is a small boat that will take you across that leaves from the tiny wharf below the carpark. Alternatively, you can rent a paddleboat (although that is definitely a little too much work). My husband reckons he has swum over there a few times but I’ve seen him swim and I’m pretty sure he’s fibbing hahahaha
Haha, that’s a pretty long swim! Good to know–I will definitely check it out if I go back to that area. Thanks for stopping by!