Elince (Alınca) Fortress

Elince (Alınca) Fortress is situated on a steep rocky mountain range above the village of Alınca in Julfa district of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. At an altitude of approximately 1,750 meters, this fortress is 30–35 km away from the city of Nakhchivan. It takes about 30–40 minutes to reach the visitor area at the foot of the fortress by private car or taxi from the city. The real journey begins from there.

The main path to the fortress is a staircase completely of stone steps. It has around 1,500 steps in total. The stairways are solid but get steeper in some areas; the climb, in such areas, has to be brisk. Visitors of average fitness can make it to the fortress in 40–60 minutes, while going down takes around 25–35 minutes. The time will naturally be longer for families with children, larger groups, and frequent photo stops.

Elince Fortress is an open-air historical monument, and visiting is free. The best times for visits are the bright hours between sunrise and sunset, as using the ladder route in the dark is unsafe. It is at its best for climbing during spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). In summer, avoid midday heat and choose early morning or late afternoon; in winter, choose frost-free days.

Being prepared is required, as there are no shade or water points along the climb. 1–1.5 liters of water per person is recommended to be taken, together with sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The wind is stronger at the summit level than it is in the city centre; a light coat in spring and autumn, and a light, sun-protective outer garment in summer, will be helpful. There is no cafe, kiosk or retail outlet within the castle.

Historically, Elince Castle was an important strategic military center that controlled the Alinjachay Valley and the passages along the Caucasus–Azerbaijan line. Mentioned in medieval sources, the castle played a great role in the regional struggle for power from the 9th–10th centuries onward. It was known that the taxes and rich goods collected from the region in the time of the Seljuks were stored here for some time.

One of the most famous sieges in Azerbaijani history was that of Elince Castle during Timur’s campaigns in the last quarter of the century. Due to its position atop a mountain, strong fortifications, and rainwater-storing cisterns, the castle resisted for years, finally falling to Timur’s forces in 1401. Owing to this very long resistance, Elince is known in the Azerbaijani historiography as “one of the most difficult fortresses to conquer.”

This multi-story set of terraces, supporting walls, and ancient cisterns makes up the structure of the castle. A secret supply line running through the mountain brought food and supplies to the castle in times of long sieges, having earlier provided a connection to the village. Today, the lower section of the castle houses brief information panels and a small exhibition area; on the way out, you can clearly observe the walls, terraces, and the settlement on the rock massif.

The view from the castle is a testament to all this effort. Once at the top, one gets to appreciate the Nakhchivan plains to the south and southwest, the Alinjachay Valley below, and-if the day is clear-the İlandag skyline all in one frame. You can shoot both the valley and the zigzagging staircase from the middle section of the stairs and enjoy the panorama described as “one of Nakhchivan’s most impressive views” from the top terrace.

This route is suitable for healthy adults, regular walkers, and visitors accustomed to trekking. Children are always to be accompanied by an adult on the steps and should not be allowed near cliff edges.

It is recommended for those with knee, heart, or breathing problems to climb the castle at a slow pace and with rest breaks; elderly visitors should also not go alone. You can stay in Nakhchivan city center and visit Elince Castle for a day trip. Take a taxi to Alınca village in the morning and ascend the castle. Return to the city in the afternoon, completing the day with other stops: Han Palace, Mömine Hatun Tomb, or Ashhab-ı Kehf. This will provide you with a chance to combine nature walks with the military and historical heritage of Nakhchivan in one program.