Feke Castle, located in the mountainous region north of Adana, was one of the strategic strongholds of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia in the Middle Ages.
AUGUST 30, 2025 – – HISTORY :
Its position on the slopes of the Taurus Mountains made it possible to control the key passes connecting the fertile Cilician plain with the interior of Anatolia.
For this reason, Feke held both military and commercial importance—guarding nearby routes and caravan roads leading toward Cappadocia and central Asia Minor.
The Armenians used the fortress as both a stronghold and an administrative center, which allowed the surrounding villages to remain under their protection.
During times of frequent conflict, Feke played a crucial role in defending the northern border of the Armenian state against Seljuk incursions, and later against the Turkmen.
At the same time, the castle served as an important link between the Armenian territories, Byzantium, and the Crusader states, since communication and supply lines were maintained through these mountain passes.
In the second half of the 13th century, when the Kingdom of Cilicia increasingly came into conflict with Mamluk Egypt, Feke became part of the defensive system against repeated raids. Although it changed hands more than once, the fortress retained its importance as a symbol of the Armenian presence in this part of Cilicia.
Feke Castle, Stronghold Between Cilicia and Anatolia
Sourse:
Robert W. Edwards, The Fortifications of Armenian Cilicia, 1987
