TOP-7 BEAUTIFUL CASTLES AND FORTRESSES OF THE WESTERN UKRAINE

23 August, 05:34 3022 0

The real magic contains not only in famous fairy tales or in old breathtaking legends. It can be quite close to you, hidden in the mysteriousness and gracefulness of beautiful olden castles and fortresses. Ukraine is the exact country on the world map where grand old castles and fortresses welcome every guest and casual passer to discover centennial secrets concealed in these magnificent buildings. The Western Ukraine retains the most of historical monuments and fascinating castles and fortresses of Ukraine.

In the beautiful city of Kamenets-Podolskyi, the magnificent Kamenets-Podolskyi Castle that overlooks an amazing Smotrych River canyon is one of the most popular places of interest in the Western Ukraine. Being a part of the Kamenets-Podolskyi outstanding historic Old Town neighborhood, the twelve-tower castle welcomes thousands of visitors every year.

Khotyn Fortress is one of the most mysterious castles of Ukraine. Established in 14th century, it was recently named one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine (in 2007). Khotyn Fortress is located on the banks of one of the most picturesque rivers of Ukraine, the Dniester River.

The Palanok Castle, located in one of the most stunning regions of Ukraine, Zakarpattia, in the city of Mukachevo, is the real masterpiece of 14th century fortification art. This historical castle firstly was an important fortification of the Kingdom of Hungary, and later was rebuilt by French engineers into an unconquerable fortress.

Lutsk High Castle is one of the most known castles among Ukrainians, as it appears on the 200-hryvnia bill. The olden 14thcentury Gothic-style fortress contains many centuries-old puzzles and secrets of the history of Ukraine and Europe.

Zolochiv Castle that was a residence of noble Sobieski family remains one of the greatest luxury historical mansions in Ukraine. Established in far 15th century, one of the most beautiful and sumptuous residences of Ukraine is still in good condition.

The Olesko Castle, which is located in 75 km from the biggest city of the Western Ukraine, Lviv city, refers to fortifications of 13thcentury. Old stone statues, wooden religious figures and garden sculptures in Olesko Castle Park make this castle a must-visit place.

Pidhirtsi Castle is the third castle within the so-called “Golden Horseshoe”, a ring of three castles: Pidhirtsi and two above-mentioned Zolochiv and Olesko Castles. The 17th century residential castle-fortress stays an important and attractive architectural site of the Western Ukraine.