The Naryn-Kala Citadel in Dagestan: 5,000 years at the Caspian gates

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Unique "places of power" with ancient history that attract tourists can be found in every region of our country. In the Republic of Dagestan, one of the most iconic landmarks is the architectural ensemble of the Naryn-Kala Citadel.

On a narrow coastal strip between the mountains and the sea, where the Caucasus almost touches the Caspian, the ancient city of Derbent has stood for five millennia. At its heart lies the Naryn-Kala Citadel, whose walls have witnessed Scythians and Persians, Arab caliphs, and Russian tsars.

The name "Sunny Fortress" (the translation of "Naryn-Kala" from Persian) is fitting: from the hilltop, a wide panorama opens up — the same view that sentinels watched over for centuries. Just three and a half kilometres once separated the sea from the mountains, forming the Derbent Pass, a key point on the Great Silk Road. It was here that the peoples of Europe and Asia traded, fought, and forged alliances.

The citadel’s walls hold layers of history. The first fortifications appeared as early as the Bronze Age, but the fortress acquired its present form under the Persian king Khosrow I in the 6th century. Its massive shell-limestone masonry, up to seven metres thick, withstood long and heavy sieges, while 25-metre walls made it impregnable.

History is tangible here: the cultural layer reaches 12 metres, and archaeologists continue to uncover unique artefacts — household items, weapons, ceramics, and coins. Peter the Great, who visited the fortress in 1722, personally examined its walls. Later, Derbent became part of Russia, turning into the empire’s southern stronghold.

Today Naryn-Kala is not just an open-air museum but a living witness to history. It is included in all major tourist routes across Dagestan, including the "Tea Express" railway cruise through the Caucasus, while festivals and workshops turn the ancient walls into a unique space for intercultural dialogue.

September is an excellent time to visit Dagestan, when the summer heat has passed and the mountain air is filled with the honeyed aroma of ripe figs.

The Republic of Dagestan is the focus of the first week of the exposition "Region-2030. Platform of the Future" at the National Centre RUSSIA, running from 2 to 7 September. During this time, guests can try national dishes, attend lectures and workshops, listen to traditional music, receive souvenirs, and purchase local products in the Department Store.

The exposition "Region-2030. Platform of the Future" at the National Centre RUSSIA brings together historical legacy and modern technology. At interactive stands, visitors can take a virtual journey through the regions, explore their economic and tourism potential, and even try out the professions of the future.

The exposition is located on the second floor of Pavilion No. 7 and is open daily, except Monday, from 10:00 to 20:00. Announcements of special guided tours, workshops, and meetings with regional representatives are available on the website russia.ru in the "Events" section and on the social media pages of the National Centre RUSSIA.