The Fortifications of Grand Duke Vytautas in the Northern Black Sea Region – the Results of Archaeological Investigations

This article presents archaeological research into the line of fortifications erected in the northern Black Sea region during the time of Vytautas, Grand Duke of Lithuania. A comparative analysis of the planning structure and design features of several fortresses from the late 14th–15th centuries is presented, featuring stone tower-type castles characteristic of the early stages of artillery development. The distinctive traits of each fortress, as well as their common features, are also identified.