Alanya Shipyard and Alanya Armory, perched on the Mediterranean’s turquoise coastlines, are quiet sentinels of a bygone period, representing the Anatolian Seljuks’ maritime ambitions and military supremacy. These ancient structures, originating from the 13th century, are among the best examples of Seljuk naval architecture, demonstrating both strategic forethought and excellent craftsmanship.

The Alanya Shipyard, also known as Tersane, dates back to Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I’s visionary rule. Following the capture of Alanya in 1221, the sultan attempted to strengthen his control over the Mediterranean by establishing a naval base. Construction began in 1228, just six years after the city fell into Seljuk hands, and was completed within a year, demonstrating the efficiency of Seljuk engineering.

The shipyard was strategically located near the renowned Kızılkule (Red Tower) to enhance sunshine penetration. This assured that shipbuilding and repair craftsmen had the best possible working conditions. The sea-facing facade is 56.5 meters in width and 44 meters in depth, with five great arches opening directly into the sea. Above the entryway, an inscription featuring Sultan Keykubad’s coat of arms and rosettes emphasizes the structure’s imperial significance.

While Sultan Keykubad’s earlier Sinop Shipyard on the Black Sea lay the framework for Seljuk naval ambitions, the Alanya Shipyard cemented his status as the “Sultan of Two Seas.” This factory not only built ships for the Seljuk fleet, but it also acted as a critical wintering base for naval forces. A tiny mosque and a guard room border the shipyard, and a now-dormant well within one of the bays originally provided fresh water to the workers and troops stationed there.

Access to the shipyard remains the same as it was centuries ago: by sea or by the ramparts that extend from the Red Tower. Visitors can now walk along the well-preserved city walls and witness the grandeur of Seljuk naval ingenuity firsthand. The shipyard is one of the best-preserved medieval dockyards in the Mediterranean, providing an authentic peek into its illustrious history.

The Alanya Armory, also known as Tophane, was built on a rocky peninsula 10 meters above sea level near the shipyard. Constructed in 1228, this three-story, rectangular-plan stronghold was critical in protecting the shipyard from sea threats. The armory, built of finely cut stone, once served as both a foundry and a defensive outpost, producing cannons for Seljuk vessels and fortifying the region’s coastal fortifications.

Alanya was a vital marine hub even after the Seljuks, first supporting the Karamanids in the 14th century and later joining the Ottoman naval network after 1471. The shipyard remained operational for centuries before becoming a historical marker. After 740 years, the Alanya Shipyard is now an open-air marine museum, safeguarding its legacy for future generations.

Each of the shipyard’s five vaults has been converted into museum galleries that display items from its seafaring heritage. The first vault houses an antique crane, which was formerly used to carry huge items, while the second vault showcases a historic Ottoman cekevele boat, known for its speed and logistical capabilities. The third vault houses a mainmast, different shipbuilding tools, and a drinking water well. The fourth portion features historic anchors, some carved from stone, highlighting the shipyard’s long history of maritime workmanship. The final and narrowest vault contains navigational instruments, demonstrating the precision and expertise required for medieval seafaring.

The shipyard’s architectural design is astonishingly well preserved. The internal vaults, made of terracotta bricks, are joined by arches and each include ventilation apertures that allow daylight to enter while dispersing smoke from the shipbuilders’ forges. The shipyard’s south-facing placement guarantees that sunlight lights the structure throughout the day, which is an intentional element that contributes to its operational efficiency.

The Ministry of Culture and Alanya Municipality’s ongoing repair initiatives aim to revive these ancient places. Plans are planned to transform the shipyard and armory into a comprehensive maritime museum that will provide a more in-depth look at the region’s naval history. This effort aims to enhance the visitor experience by preserving artifacts, restoring architectural aspects, and creating exhibitions commemorating Alanya’s crucial role in Mediterranean trade and warfare.

Visitors can now follow a meticulously planned wooden trail through the shipyard’s old rooms. The seamless blend of preservation and accessibility ensures that visitors to this extraordinary Seljuk naval stronghold get an authentic experience. And, best of all, admittance is free, allowing history buffs to travel back in time without restriction.