The ancient city of Arsinoe and Mamure Fortress in Mersin are included in the list of specially protected cultural sites in Turkey

According to the decision of the President, 12 historical sites of Turkey have been included in the list of specially protected cultural and historical areas. The list includes the ancient city of Arsinoe and the Mamure Fortress located in Mersin.

The city of Arsinoe was founded in 270 BC during the time of Aethos of Aspendos. Arsinoe had harbors to the east and west, and the city itself was surrounded by strong high walls. The western walls, fortified with towers, have survived to this day. The church in the northeast and the basilica are also well preserved. Only traces of the foundations of three churches from the early Byzantine period remain.

The fortress of Mamure is a medieval fortress 6 km east of the town of Anamur. The area of the structure is 23,500 m². The length of the outer walls is 580 meters. The fortress includes 39 towers and bastions. The structure of the fortress resembles the Alania Red Tower, which also consists of three components: ichkale - the inner part (citadel), ortakale - the fortifications inside the city and dishkale - the outer fortifications, which include a long ditch with water on the land side.