Although the Turkish suffix
-kale means fort, this building is actually a mausoleum. Also, contrary to popular belief it is not a mausoleum of a king. It was built by an eminent
Roman citizen (probably a land owner) for his family. The building was used as a tomb for about two centuries. Then it was abandoned during the
Byzantine era. During
Ottoman era, the building was used as a house and a furnace was added to the original building. == Technical details ==