Perekop

Perekop is a town located on the Isthmus of Perekop, the narrow land bridge that connects the Crimean Peninsula to the Ukrainian mainland in northern Crimea. It sits at the eastern end of the isthmus, a position that has made it a traditional gateway and defensive point between the peninsula and the continental region. The name Perekop is of Turkic origin and has been adopted into both Ukrainian and Russian usage.

Geography and significance: The Isthmus of Perekop separates the shallow, brackish Syvash lagoons from the open Black Sea and has long been a natural barrier requiring fortifications to control movement into Crimea. Perekop and its surrounding fortifications have historically served as a strategic military stronghold, with various powers constructing defenses to guard the peninsula.

History: The area around Perekop has a long military legacy, reflecting its role as the main landward approach to Crimea. In the Russian Civil War era, the Perekop–Chongar operation of 1920 was a decisive military action that enabled the Red Army to take control of Crimea. The site later featured fortifications and related military facilities that echoed its enduring strategic importance through the centuries.

Administrative status: Since 2014, the region has been de facto administered by Russia as part of the Republic of Crimea, while it remains internationally recognized as part of Ukraine. The status of governance is a point of territorial dispute between the two countries and the broader international community.

Economy and transport: Perekop serves as a local administrative and transport node on the isthmus. The economy is largely based on agriculture and regional services, with the fortifications and the geography drawing interest from visitors and tourists to the historic site.