The book is based on the richest collection of archival materials and rare photographic documents. It tells about the history of the emergence and stages of construction of the Sevastopol fortress. The most important events of the 349 days of the heroic defense of Sevastopol 1854-1855. during the Crimean War of 1853-1856, the unparalleled work of sappers and miners on the defense line, the courage and heroism of the defenders of the fortress - sailors and soldiers, fought under the leadership of outstanding military leaders - admirals V. A. Kornilov, M.P. Lazarev, P.S. Nakhimov and the head of fortification work, engineer General E.I. Totleben. Most of the illustrations given in the book are published for the first time.