The marvel of Khmelnytskyi: Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress

Ukraine is a country with centuries of history. It is a real treasure for tourists who are looking for hidden gems of the world, amidst the incredible beauty created by nature. There are so many places in my country where the majestic landscape is combined with the amazing history of the nation. In this article, I will discover for you the marvel of Western Ukraine, the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress. This place is deservedly referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine. The fortress is located in the city of Kamianets-Podilskyi, in the Khmelnytskyi region.

Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress, Khmelnytskyi

Старе місто, Kamianets'-podil's'kyi, Khmel'nyts'ka oblast, Ukraine, 32341

The history of this complex fortress

The Ukrainians say about the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress that it was created first by God, and then by man. And that's true. After all, the fortress is located on an incredible terrain on a rocky peninsula, in the canyon of the Smotrich River. The combination of the extraordinary nature and the impenetrable defensive walls of the fortress impresses tourists daily. The roads and the bridge around the fort are reminiscent of vessels that lead to the heart of the city.

The first constructions of the Kamyanets-Podilskyi Fortress date back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The defensive structures in Kamianets-Podilskyi are considered to be an excellent example of the pristine fortifications of Eastern Europe. From the 14th century, the fortress was the main outpost of the principality of Lithuania in Podillya, and from 1434 until the end of the 18th century -of the Commonwealth. The Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress consists of two sections. The first is the Old Fortress, which contains eleven towers in the shape of an irregular quadrangle that connect through the fortress' walls. The second section of the fortress was built later, in the 17th century, and is a bastion system with additional defensive structures.

Authentic medieval vibes 

Of course, when you come to Kamianets-Podilskyi, you will first of all be amazed by the incredible beauty and spirit of the Middle Ages that dominates here. The city is considered one of the oldest in Ukraine, with a broad set of architectural and historical monuments. On the way to the fortress, you will find a lovely observation deck, which offers a spectacular view of the ancient citadel. Also, every tourist certainly takes a photo on the bridge that leads to the fort. Despite a large number of city guests, the authentic medieval spirit still prevails in Kamianets-Podilskyi.

On the territory of the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress, you will undoubtedly meet people wearing medieval clothing. Here you have the opportunity to shoot from the bow and visit the dungeons. If you are staying overnight in Kamianets-Podilskyi, then you need to take a nightly theatrical tour of the Old Castle. A group of historical characters in suits with torches provides a guided tour of the castle. They tell fascinating stories and show the fort's innermost corners. You will see how water got into the fortress, where the casemates and cells were, and where they fired bows and crossbows. You will be surprised by the night illumination of the castle, which creates the atmosphere of a romantic medieval fairytale. I invite you to visit the marvel of Khmelnytskyi, the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress.