Description of the attraction
The main architectural attraction of the city of Lutsk is the so-called Lutsk Castle. This is one of the few architectural monuments of the era of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in the country that have survived to this day. The majestic castle has three names: Lutskiy, Upper and Lubart's castle.
The first buildings on this site were founded in the 11th century (the first written mention of the castle dates back to 1075). These were fortifications, which consisted of a wooden castle, defensive ramparts, towers and walls. In this form, the castle existed for almost two centuries.
In 1340, in its place, the Lithuanian prince Lubart built a powerful stone fortification that protected the city. During the reign of Lubert, the Lutsk castle was elected as a prince's residence in the Galicia-Volyn principality. In 1429, a congress of European monarchs and rulers of 15 states was held in Lutsk, at which political and economic issues of Central-Eastern Europe were discussed. Knight tournaments, wedding ceremonies and feasts were held in the fortress.
Lutsk castle consisted of the Upper and Lower castle. Until now, only the Upper Castle has survived in its original form, only ruins remained from the Lower.
In 1430-1542, during the reign of Prince Svidrigailo, the castle was additionally fortified. Towers were attached to it (Entrance, Lady, Styrovaya) and surrounded by walls. The castle area resembles a triangle in shape. Powerful defensive walls were erected at the very edge of the hill, thanks to which the Lutsk castle was never captured. Its territory could only be reached by a drawbridge.
Today the Lutsk castle is a part of the historical and cultural reserve "Old Lutsk". Visiting this ancient castle, you can see all of its three towers, the courthouse and office building, the underground of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, the ruins of the princely palace and the episcopal palace.
