Цой-Педе, Medieval defensive tower in Itum-Kalinsky District, Russia.
Tsoi-Pede is a rectangular stone tower rising 19 meters high on a rocky ledge above a canyon, constructed from massive stone blocks fitted without mortar. Its walls contain narrow openings on the eastern and southern sides, each level designed for defense and observation.
The tower was built during the Middle Ages as part of a defensive network protecting this mountain region. It served both as a stronghold and as a communication point, using smoke signals to relay messages across distant peaks.
The rock surfaces around the tower display carved symbols left by the people who inhabited this mountain region. These markings reflect the beliefs and customs of communities that lived here centuries ago.
The site sits high on a rocky outcrop and requires climbing over steep terrain to reach it. Bring sturdy footwear and water, as the surroundings are remote and exposed to mountain conditions.
The exterior stone blocks weigh up to 4 tons each and fit together so precisely that no mortar was needed to bind them. This feat reveals the sophisticated building knowledge of medieval craftsmen in these remote mountains.
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