The Byzantine fortress Theodosiopolis, founded in eastern Anatolia in the fourth century, played a key role in the history of the Turkish state at all times. The Turks, after conquering Theodosiopolis, renamed the city and it became known as Erzurum.
The Clock Tower (another name for the former Tepsi Minaret) is the oldest structure in Erzurum. At first, the minaret fulfilled the role of an observation tower. It was erected at the beginning of the twelfth century. In Ottoman times the tower was made into a clock tower. Despite the fact that the clock mechanism was stopped by time - the clock tower is still an architectural monument. This clock was once presented by Queen Victoria herself.
The clock tower is one of the highest points not only in the fortress, but also in the whole city. It offers a beautiful view of the valley and the city. The architectural style of the tower does not harmonise at all with the rest of the fortress, as they were built in different eras.
It can be reached by a spiral staircase running inside.
The clock tower is located in the centre of the fortress.
