Водохранилище крестообразное, Cross-shaped reservoir in Naryn Castle, Derbent, Russia.
The water storage basin inside Naryn Castle follows an early medieval Byzantine layout with a cross-shaped design. The square form with four arms allowed both water storage and structural stability within the fortress walls.
The structure was built as part of ancient Derbent's defense system and served water supply for centuries. It was integrated into a strategically important fortress that protected the region over long periods.
The structure shows how Byzantine Christian architecture found its place in this Islamic region of the south. You can see here how different cultures coexisted in the building style.
You can reach the basin through guided tours around the entire Naryn Castle, with tickets available at the main fortress entrance. It's wise to wear comfortable shoes since you will walk through different areas of the old fortification.
Despite its military function, the basin is still used for its original purpose today and actually holds water. This dual role as a practical structure and protected monument makes it a rare example of living history.
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