Stare Selo Castle, Medieval fortress in Stare Selo, Ukraine
Stare Selo Castle is a pentagonal stone fortress in southeastern Ukraine. Its walls rise approximately 15 meters high and enclose three remaining towers plus a ceremonial gateway with distinctive Renaissance architectural features.
The fortress was built between 1584 and 1589 to defend southeastern trade routes to Lviv against Crimean Tatar raids. It endured a major Turkish siege in 1674 and survived this attack successfully.
The fortress served as a symbol of the Ostrogski family's power and influence in the region. Its distinctive silhouette continues to shape the appearance of the settlement today.
The fortress is located about 27 kilometers southeast of Lviv and welcomes visitors. It is best visited during dry weather when the paths around the walls are easy to navigate.
The fortress has an unusual pentagonal design that was rare among fortifications of its era. This layout provided defenders with tactical advantages for observing and repelling attacks from multiple directions.
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