The majestic remains of the medieval Genoese fortress Cembalo rise on the Eastern Cape, dominating the entrance to Balaklava Bay. Cembalo was captured by the Genoese in the period from 1340 to 1357. Having founded a new colony, the Genoese erected the city of St. Nicholas on the top of the cliff. In June 1434, the fortress was captured by the Mangup Principality (Feodoro), but in June of the following year, the Genoese squadron under the command of Carlo Lomellino approached Balaklava Bay and, after a fierce battle, liberated Cembalo. In the summer of 1475, the Turks captured the Genoese colonies in the Crimea, including Chembalo, giving it a new name - Balykaya (Balaklava). This fortress is also known for the fact that deposed Tatar khans from Bakhchisaray were exiled here. The Chembalo Fortress is a branch of the national reserve "Tauric Chersonese".