Genoese fortress at Sudak

Genoese fortress of Sudak is the main a landmark of Sudak and one of the most interesting historical buildings of the eastern part of the Crimea.

The modern fortress was erected by the Genoese in the period from 1371 to 1469, but initially the defensive structures on this site appeared much earlier: scientists have established that since the middle of the 7th century there was a fortified Byzantine city of Sugdea-the trade, economic and political center of the region. There is also an unofficial version that initially the fortifications on this site were built in 212 by the Alans, which has not yet been confirmed, but only mentioned in Legends. During the period of its existence, The Citadel repeatedly passed from one hand to another, sometimes as a result of bloody battles, and sometimes without a fight at all. You can learn about the eventful history of this monument during a tour of the fortress.

The main part of the objects that have survived to our time appeared during the presence of the Genoese (1365-1475). These are defensive walls, towers Dozornaya (Maiden) and Astaguerra (port), the Consular Castle, the mosque (built later during the reign of the Horde), the temples of the Twelve Apostles and the Catholic Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, the remains of Urban Development, the coastal fortification of the VI century and the like.

Today, the territory of the fortress city is open to tourists as an open-air museum. In comparison with KAFA fortress in Feodosia, the Genoese fortress Sudak has been preserved and restored much better, respectively, and it is much more interesting to visit it. In addition, at a certain time you can join a group with excursion service, which is much more interesting than self-inspection. Additionally, on the territory you can visit the Museum of numismatics (entrance 50 rubles, excursion service included), which is located underground; the Historical Museum (free of charge); the Museum of "instruments of torture" (temporarily closed). Also on the territory of the museum you can shoot arrows for an additional fee. In front of the entrance to the museum there is a small market of souvenir shops and cafes. At the entrance, they offer to take a picture with a mummified actor for money.

When visiting, it is worth remembering that the entrance in swimsuits and with a bare torso, with animals, is prohibited. Smoking is strictly prohibited on the territory of the fortress.