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Soroca Fortress: A Moldovan Medieval Marvel

Explore Soroca Fortress: A perfectly preserved medieval marvel offering a glimpse into Moldova's rich history and stunning river views.

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Soroca Fortress, a well-preserved medieval castle in Soroca, Moldova, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and strategic importance. Originally built in the 15th century by Stephen the Great to defend against invasions, the fortress boasts a unique circular design and has witnessed numerous historical events. Today, it's a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into Moldova's past and stunning views of the Dniester River.

A brief summary to Soroca Fortress

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces and climbing stairs within the fortress.
  • Visit during late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn more about the fortress's history and significance.
  • Take advantage of the panoramic views from the fortress towers, especially at sunset.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Soroca, the fortress is easily accessible on foot. Head north along Independenței Street, which leads directly to the fortress. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering a pleasant way to see the town. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Local minibuses (rutiere) run throughout Soroca and can take you to the fortress. Look for routes heading towards the northern part of the city. The fare is typically 6 MDL. Ask the driver to confirm the route and stop nearest to the fortress.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Soroca. You can hail one on the street or use a ride-hailing app like YandexGo (though availability may be limited). A short taxi ride from the city center to the fortress should cost around 27.5 MDL, considering a 5km ride with a base fare of 15 MDL and 2.5 MDL per kilometer.

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Discover more about Soroca Fortress

Soroca Fortress, located in the city of Soroca on the banks of the Dniester River, is a remarkable example of medieval Moldovan defensive architecture. Founded in 1499 by Prince Stephen the Great, the original structure was a wooden fort built to protect a vital crossing point against Tatar incursions. Between 1543 and 1546, during the reign of Petru Rareș, the fortress was rebuilt in stone, adopting its current circular form. The fortress features a perfect circle design with a diameter of 37.5 meters and five equally spaced bastions. This unique design, incorporating the "golden section," allowed for optimal defense, eliminating blind spots. The walls are 3.05 meters thick and 21 meters high, with the towers rising an additional 4 meters above the walls. Inside, a small military church can be found above the entrance gate. Throughout its history, Soroca Fortress has been a key strategic point. It successfully defended against Ottoman sieges during the Great Turkish War and played a vital role in the Prut Campaign of Peter the Great in 1711. The fortress has been visited by numerous historical figures, including Bogdan Khmelnitsky and Alexander Suvorov. Today, Soroca Fortress stands as a symbol of Moldovan resilience and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history, admire its unique architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the Dniester River and surrounding landscape.

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