Seven-chamber fortress

The Seven-chamber fortress is a military fortification in Semey with a square layout and four bastions positioned along the Irtysh River. The original construction used wooden walls and earthen ramparts, though only the reconstructed Yamyshev Gates from 1973 remain as a visible structure today.

The fortress was founded in 1718 by decree of Peter the Great as a military outpost protecting Russian territories along the Irtysh line. It was relocated upstream in 1776 because the original location suffered from regular flooding.

The fortress takes its name from an ancient Buddhist monastery that once stood here, which had seven temple chambers. This religious heritage shapes how local people understand and speak about the site today.

Access to the site is generally open for visitors to explore the grounds and the Yamyshev Gates. It is helpful to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for weather conditions typical of the riverbank area.

The original location sat in a swampy area that caused persistent flooding issues for those maintaining the fortress. Moving upstream became necessary to find ground that could better support the military installation.