Hiding many secrets of Ukraine: Why you should visit Akkerman Fortress at least once

The Akkerman Fortress is not just an ancient structure, but a true guardian of history that has stood watch for several centuries. Here, one can feel the powerful force of time and the invincible spirit of Ukrainian history, Mandria.ua reports.
Rising on the shore of the picturesque Dniester Estuary is one of Ukraine's largest and oldest fortresses - Akkerman Fortress.
This majestic defensive structure, located in the city of Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi in the Odesa region, impresses with its scale and centuries-old history dating back to the 13th century.
View of the Dniester Estuary (photo: Wikipedia)
The fortress was built on the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Tyras and over the centuries was improved under the rule of the Genoese, Lithuanians, and Turks.
Each era left its unique mark on the fortress's architecture - massive walls stretching over 2.5 kilometers surrounding an area of more than 9 hectares, 34 towers, 12 gates, as well as the remains of the citadel, churches, and residential buildings.
The defensive walls, ranging from 1.5 to 5 meters thick and up to 15 meters high, make the fortress a truly impregnable stronghold.
On the northern side, it practically borders the waters of the Dniester Estuary, while on the other three sides, it is surrounded by a deep moat.
This is not just a fortress - it is a whole city within a city, demonstrating Akkerman's grandeur and strategic importance in the past.
Entrance to the fortress (photo: Wikipedia)
The Akkerman Fortress is a popular tourist destination that attracts not only historians and architects but also adventure enthusiasts.
Festivals, knight tournaments, and unique fortress atmosphere often serve as the backdrop for famous films such as "D'Artagnan and Three Musketeers," "Yaroslav the Wise," and "Taras Bulba."
Travelers are advised to visit the fortress in the morning or evening when the heat is less intense. A must on the itinerary is climbing one of the towers, from which there is a breathtaking panorama of the Dniester Estuary.
Comfortable shoes and a camera will be your best companions for exploring its walls and picturesque views.
Akkerman Fortress at night (photo: Wikipedia)
According to legend, treasures of the Turkish sultan are still hidden in one of the Akkerman Fortress's towers, adding even more mystery to the place. Entrance to the territory is paid, and in a specially equipped museum, visitors can learn more about the history of this unique monument.
Getting to the fortress is easy - buses run regularly from Odesa, Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, and other nearby towns. The Akkerman Fortress is a true gem of Ukrainian history, worth visiting for everyone who values the grandeur and richness of the past.
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