Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle

Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Ukraine and one of the most dramatically sited in all of Eastern Europe. The complex consists of an Old Castle (a 14th–15th century tower keep with twelve towers) and a Polish New Fortress added in the 16th century, together forming a continuous defensive system across the rocky spit at the western end of the old town island. The castle is separated from the mainland by a deep canyon cut by the Smotrych River on three sides.

The castle can be entered through its restored gatehouse. Inside there are multiple towers to climb, some with exhibits on the castle's history, and the walls themselves offer excellent views of the canyon below and the old town behind. The complex is occasionally used for outdoor events and festivals. Allow at least two hours; the combination of the castle interior and the surrounding canyon walk can fill a half day.

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A story
In 1672 the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed IV besieged the city with an army of more than 100,000 men. The garrison of fewer than 1,000 soldiers held for several days before surrendering. The Ottomans then demanded that the cathedral be converted to a mosque — and the minaret they added to it is still there today. When Poland regained the city in 1699, they left the minaret standing but placed a golden statue of the Virgin Mary on top of it.