Exploring historical landmarks of the Northern Ukraine comes with highs and lows. After a long drive across picturesque autumn backcountry, I arrived at the city of Baturyn known as a settlement of a democratic, self-governing, semi-military community since 1600s. Nowadays the Citadel of the Baturyn fortress is one of the most important historical values of the city of Baturyn.

The fortress was established in 1625. In the autumn of 1708, Peter I and his 20,000-strong Moscow army unsuccessfully stormed the fortified city at first, but after penetration through a secret passage they massacred all people and set fire to Baturyn and the surrounding villages.

The Citadel of the Baturyn Fortress was rebuilt in 2008. However, many details of the replica look toyish. The front wall of a 28-meter 4-level gate tower is modestly perforated with several loopholes and the top is mere decoration. Noteworthy that the other two towers barely protrude beyond the line of the walls failing to provide flanking fire as a result. The cannons are replicas of field guns of unidentified origin that are shown on display in a nearby region.

After a 30-minute walking I have found nothing else to do in the Citadel. Yeah! I would love to find classes of clay pottery, archery shooting, “ancient” coin manual minting, and dramatized tours.

In a few words, the replica overwhelms a visitor with mixed feelings. On the one hand, this place is pleasant and monumental, on the other, the costly new-made models fail to connect sightseers with the past.

The front wall of a 28-meter 4-level gate tower is modestly perforated with several loopholes and the top is mere decoration. Noteworthy that the other two towers barely protrude beyond the line of the walls failing to provide flanking fire as a result. The cannons are replicas of field guns of unidentified origin that are shown on display in a nearby region.

Ukraine has many attractions to be thrilled about. My next adventure is just around the corner.