"A most impressive megalithic site, situated just outside of Kerch, which I am glad to have been able to visit. Although said to have been used as burial site (and it may well have been at some point in time), the architecture reminds of the apparently (to a certain degree) earthquake proof Sardinian nuraghi and the way wells/springs were arched over with megalithic structures there in the ancient past - and thus protected from who knows what may once have been falling from the skies. Just think of the Greek myth of Phaeton or of what Aegypt's Ramses III had inscribed on the walls of his temple at Medinet Habu about the then recent destruction of most of the Mediterranean, including ancient Aegypt, by earthquakes as well as fires and stones falling from the skies.
Even though the historical views on display in the small adjacent museum building give some hints, it is hard to make out to what extent the site may have been disturbed during its excavation, and how close to its original shape it is today.
Unfortunately, all texts in the museum are in Russian only."

Upāsaka Gahapati

"The Kurgan Real, also known as the Royal Mound, is a majestic burial mound located just outside Kerch in Crimea. Dating back to the 4th century BC, it is considered one of the most impressive megalithic sites in the region. Associated with the ancient Greek city of Panticapaeum, founded by settlers from Miletus, the site is believed to have served as the tomb of a ruler of the Bosphorus Kingdom, likely Leukon of Bosphorus (389-349 BC).

Excavations conducted between 1833 and 1837 revealed remains of a wooden sarcophagus and carved Christian symbols, indicating that the site had been looted and later reused by early Christians. The mound rises to a height of nearly 20 meters with a perimeter of 250 meters. Inside, it features a square burial chamber transitioning into a dome 8.84 meters high and a corridor (dromos) measuring 2.80 meters wide and 37 meters long. These structures were constructed using limestone blocks.

The architecture of the Kurgan Real bears resemblance to earthquake-resistant structures such as Sardinian nuraghi and ancient megalithic constructions designed to protect wells and springs. This has led some to speculate about its potential role in safeguarding against natural disasters, drawing comparisons to Greek myths like that of Phaeton and historical accounts such as Ramses III's inscriptions at Medinet Habu describing destruction caused by earthquakes and falling debris.

Now, the mound itself is empty, but the stonework of its walls and ceiling remains highly impressive. A small museum adjacent to the site provides insights into its history, though all informational texts are currently available only in Russian. The museum also displays photographs and artifacts related to the mound, dating back to its excavation.

Visitors have noted the site’s resemblance to Egypt's pyramids and admired its historical significance and unique drop-shaped design. The entrance fee, as of September 2018, was 120 rubles per adult. February, in particular, is an ideal time to visit, as there are no crowds. The site is highly recommended for those interested in ancient history and architecture, making it a memorable destination for both adults and children."

A J Bashha

"Absolutely beautiful.❤️🙏🙏"

georgeaustin austin