Zakhab-type double-wall fortified gates of the Izborsk fortress(revisiting the initial stages of construction)

The paper presents new data for dating the initial stages of the Talava andSt. Nikolas zakhab-type double-wall fortified gates of the Izborsk fortress. The data wereobtained during architectural and archaeological examinations conducted by the authorsof the publication in the 2000s. The examinations demonstrate that the Talava zakhab hasretained its ancient layout and the elements of the original entry design, which date tothe first three decades of the 14th century. Archaeological materials have shown that bothzakhabs were rebuilt during the reconstruction of the fortress at the end of 14th century -first decades of the 15th century. Because of the construction of the tower the walkwaythrough the Talava zakhab was closed. The St. Nikolas zakhab was fully rebuilt andbecame the main entry gate to the fortress.