The protected area known as Turova Mohyla is a fascinating natural and historical site within the Dermansko-Ostrozkyi National Nature Park. It is known for its scenic landscapes and rich ancient history, which is closely intertwined with local folk legends.
The site is located in the Zdolbuniv district of the Rivne region, southeast of the village of Mosty, and covers an area of approximately 1.5 hectares. It lies among forested areas and the picturesque hills of the Kremenets Mountains, part of the unique natural landscape of the Mizoch Ridge.
In spring and summer, the forest is filled with colour and the scent of blooming plants. The area is home to a wide variety of forest flora, including rare and protected species such as bird’s-nest orchid (Neottia nidus-avis), green-flowered butterfly orchid (Platanthera chlorantha), and martagon lily (Lilium martagon). Regionally rare species also grow here, including peach-leaved bellflower (Campanula persicifolia), Sarmatian dittany (Melittis sarmatica), and dusky cranesbill (Geranium phaeum). At the same time, the area provides habitat for many animal species, including roe deer, European badger, red deer, European wildcat, and Eurasian elk.
Today, Turova Mohyla is an excellent place for hiking and for exploring the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of Volyn and the Dermansko-Ostrozkyi National Nature Park. Visitors can enjoy the silence of the forest, fresh air, birdsong, and the beauty of ancient trees.
The Legend of Turova Mohyla
The central feature of the site is a burial mound known as Turova Mohyla (“The Turkish Grave”). Many areas of the park and surrounding regions are associated with folk tales, and this is one of them. According to legend, a battle took place here between Turks and Cossacks, in which the Cossacks emerged victorious. A Turkish commander was killed in the battle and was allegedly buried according to an ancient military custom – upright on horseback in a vertical position. This event, according to legend, gave the site its name and has preserved its memory through the centuries as a reflection of ancient times.
The legend gained particular attention during excavations in 1914. Archaeologists discovered a large number of human and horse bones, as well as a small bottle covered with an inverted plate. Local historians note that such a burial practice may correspond to Muslim funerary traditions, although this has not been definitively confirmed by archaeological evidence.