Fortress Funa
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Funa Fortress and where is it located?
These are the ruins of a medieval fortress at the western foot of Mount Pivdenna Demerji, 2 km north of the village of Luchyste. The name is of Greek origin and roughly means "smoky" - probably because of the fogs that gathered near the mountain.
When was it built and why were only its ruins left?
It was built between 1422 and 1459, and almost immediately, in 1423, it was damaged by an earthquake, so it soon had to be completely rebuilt. And in 1475, when Crimea was captured by the Ottoman Turks, the fortress finally ceased to exist.
What exactly can be seen at the site today?
The ruins of the fortification itself, which once occupied almost half a hectare - about 106 meters long and 56 meters wide. The main donjon tower reached 15 meters. The best-preserved remains of the church of St. Theodore Stratilatus.
How to get to Funa?
The landmark is simple - the village of Luchyste near Demerji, about 2 kilometers north of it. The fortress lies right at the foot of the mountain, so it is usually visited together with a walk to the Valley of Ghosts.
What is interesting about Funa, besides the walls?
It guards the entrance to the Demerdzhina Valley and is a monument of cultural heritage in itself. It is quite a rare case when both Russia and Ukraine officially claim the same ruin as their own.
