Where the Bosporus becomes the Black Sea sits the remnants of Yoros Castle.  Several hundred years of weather, war, and neglect has left little of the castle standing atop the hill looking out over the water, but it is the centuries old ruins that make this an Istanbul day trip worth taking.

There is a path leading up to Yoros Castle, much of it near a military base with signs reminding you that no pictures are allowed.  At least on most of the hike.  Once atop the hill, you’re free from any military zone, and with the view spreading out before you, you’ll be glad you brought your camera.

I found myself standing atop the hill near Yoros Castle as the sun set.  The result was a beautiful view as Istanbul’s city lights came to life.  The large illuminated flag of the nearby military establishment was a reminder of the military significance of the fortress throughout history, guarding the strait.

The ruins are open and free to the public.  This means that you can wander in and around the castle, completely unmolested.  It also means that people climb on the ruins, scaling the walls as if they were besieging the fortress.

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