Khotyn Fortress, Medieval fortress in Khotyn, Ukraine.
Khotyn Fortress is a medieval fortification in Khotyn, Chernivtsi Oblast in Ukraine, rising on a rocky outcrop above the Dniester River. Thick stone walls form a closed defensive circuit with nine towers, while the spacious inner courtyard once held barracks, storerooms, and wells for a large garrison.
The first defenses appeared in the 10th century under Prince Vladimir, securing trade routes along the Dniester at a natural chokepoint. Moldavian rulers in the 15th century expanded the complex with thicker walls and higher towers, then Ottoman forces seized it repeatedly and added their own modifications.
The name comes from the town that grew beside the walls, where local families lived under constant threat from neighboring powers for centuries. Walking through the courtyard and towers today, visitors see layers left by different rulers, from Christian crosses carved in stone to half-moon motifs added during Ottoman control.
A visit takes at least two hours because the complex is large and several towers require climbing steep staircases. Sturdy shoes help when exploring uneven courtyards and ramps, while shade is limited during summer months.
Scenes from several historical films were shot inside the walls because the well-preserved structures provided medieval backdrops without modern intrusions. Visitors sometimes recognize corners and courtyards that appeared in well-known productions.
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