Kamyanets Podilsky Castle, Medieval fortress museum in Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine
Kamyanets Podilsky Castle is a stone fortress built on a peninsula surrounded by the river and connected to the town by a single bridge. Twelve towers stand along the thick walls, each with its own name and shape, forming a closed defensive line together.
Lithuanian princes built the stone fortress in the 14th century on the site of an older wooden structure. Later, Polish and Ottoman rulers expanded the complex, each era leaving its mark on the architecture.
The name Smotrych means border river, reflecting how often control shifted between different kingdoms. School groups now visit the exhibitions to learn about the era when knights and soldiers lived within these walls.
Access is through the Zamkovyi Bridge, which leads to the main gate complex. Visitors can climb most of the towers and should wear sturdy footwear, as paths are uneven and steps can be steep.
The Chorna Tower houses a wooden water wheel from medieval times, still visible today. This wheel lifted water from the river below, ensuring soldiers had access to fresh water even during long sieges.
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