Pokrovskaya Tower, Pskov, Medieval defensive tower in Pskov, Russia.
Pokrovskaya Tower is a medieval stone structure on the banks of the Velikaya River, standing approximately 52 meters tall with thick defensive walls. Built around 1500, it features multiple floors and demonstrates the military construction methods typical of its era.
The structure was built around 1500 and later became the center of intense fighting during a 1581 siege by Polish forces. Local defenders successfully resisted the attack and forced the attacking army to withdraw.
The tower stands alongside religious buildings, showing how military defense and spiritual life were intertwined in the medieval city. Visitors can observe how these two aspects of urban life existed closely together.
The tower is accessible to visitors who can explore the interior spaces across multiple levels and examine the medieval stonework up close. The riverside location provides clear orientation and good views of the surroundings.
The building contained specialized chambers designed to detect underground tunnels being dug during sieges. These rooms reveal the technical innovations that medieval defenders used to prevent surprise attacks from below.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.