Bender Fortress
Cetatea Tighina
An Ottoman fortress on the Dniester with well-preserved walls and towers, located in the city of Bender in the Transnistria region.
The Ottoman Empire expanded this fortress in the 16th century on the foundations of an earlier Moldavian fortress. It witnessed several Russo-Turkish wars, and Swedish King Charles XII once took refuge nearby. The walls, towers and gates have been well restored, and the site includes a small museum and a statue of Baron Münchhausen. Entry is cheap. Bender is in Transnistria, a region that is not internationally recognized. Entry requires a passport and registration, so check the latest travel safety advisories.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Tiraspol
- Castel Mimi
- Château Purcari
- Et Cetera Winery
- Botanical Garden of Chișinău
- Ciuflea Monastery
- Chișinău Central Market
- Mileștii Mici Winery