The Red Tower: The Crimson Icon of Alanya Harbour

The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) is an octagonal Seljuk tower of red brick rising on the harbour shore in the Alanya district of Antalya. Built in 1226, the tower has become the most recognisable symbol of the town and its port. Integrated into the defence system of Alanya Castle, this magnificent structure offers history and sea views together and is a stop not to be missed.

History and architecture

The tower was built during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alâeddin Keykubad to protect the town and shipyard against attacks from the sea. It takes its name from the red brick used in its construction; this material gives it a warm, crimson appearance recognisable even from afar. Octagonal in plan and monumental in scale, the tower is considered one of the finest examples of the military architecture of its era.

As you wander among its thick walls, inner courtyard and floors, you can see up close how a medieval defensive structure worked. From the top level, Alanya harbour, the shipyard, the marina and the castle on the peninsula unite in a single view. Together with the historic shipyard running along the shore, the tower is one of the most tangible surviving witnesses to Alanya's powerful maritime identity in the Seljuk period.

How to get there

Because the Red Tower sits right on the shore of Alanya harbour, it is very close to the centre and easily reached. Walking from the town centre toward the harbour is a pleasant option; as you follow the seafront, the tower appears before you. City buses and shared minibuses (dolmuş) also reach stops around the harbour. Those visiting Alanya Castle can add the tower and shipyard to the same route as they descend. As schedules can change by season, we recommend checking current information before you go.

When to go

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore the tower and the surrounding harbour area at ease. In summer the area around the port can be crowded and hot, so early morning is more peaceful. The sunset view from the tower's upper level is especially striking; the late-afternoon light makes the red brick glow all the more vividly.

Practical tips

As there are narrow, steep interior stairs when climbing the tower, wear comfortable non-slip shoes. Bring water and sun protection; the harbour shore is hot in summer. Entry to the tower may be charged, so we suggest carrying cash. Combine the visit with a walk through the shipyard and harbour, then pause at the seafront cafés for a pleasant programme. You catch the best light for photography in the first hours of morning and the last of evening.

Where is the Red Tower and how do you get there?

The Red Tower stands on the harbour shore of Alanya, very close to the town centre. It is easily reached on foot along the seafront from the centre; city buses and minibuses also run to stops around the harbour. It can also be seen along the same route as you descend from Alanya Castle. As schedules can change by season, check current information before you go.

When was the Red Tower built and where does its name come from?

The Red Tower was built in 1226, during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alâeddin Keykubad, to protect the harbour and the shipyard. It takes its name from the red brick used in its construction; this material gives the tower a warm, crimson appearance visible even from afar and makes it the symbol of Alanya.

How long does it take to visit the Red Tower?

Wandering the tower across its floors and taking in the view from the top usually takes half an hour to an hour. If you combine the visit with the historic shipyard right beside it and a harbour walk, you can comfortably devote a few hours to the seafront and build a delightful outing.

To discover Alanya Castle, the shipyard, the harbour and other places worth seeing nearby, be sure to browse the guides, maps and nearby stops on FindAntalya.