The Genoese Fortress of Cesme is located in the center of Cesme, not far from the harbor and waterfront. It is one of the city's most prominent historic landmarks: its massive walls and towers are clearly visible even as you approach the old part of the resort. Despite its familiar name, the fortress in its current form is primarily associated with the Ottoman period, when the fortifications on this site were rebuilt and incorporated into the coastal defense system.

The fortress occupied an important position at the entrance to the bay and helped control the sea approaches to the port. Its history is linked to military events in the Aegean region, including the Battle of Chesma in the 18th century, after which the structure was damaged but survived and was later restored. Thanks to this, visitors today can see not just isolated fragments, but a complete historic complex.

Today, the fortress is of interest not only as a monument of defensive architecture, but also as a museum space. Inside is the Cesme Archaeological Museum, which displays finds from the ancient city of Erythrai and other sites on the peninsula. A visit makes it possible to combine a walk through old fortifications with an exploration of the archaeological exhibition.

For tourists, it is a convenient stop while getting to know the center of Cesme. The fortress walls and inner courtyards offer views of the port area of the city, and in the summer season the site is sometimes used for cultural events. People usually come here for the city's history, the museum collection, and a walk through one of Cesme's most recognizable landmarks.