Ulm fortress
KZ Obererer Kuhberg, Ulm, Germany
Description:
The Ulm Fortress, located in the German city of the same name, was built to strengthen the security of German lands after the Napoleonic Wars. It was built from 1838 to 1859 and was considered one of the largest defensive structures in Europe.
The fortress in the shape of a polygon has two cylindrical towers at the corners in the west and one hemispherical tower in the center of the eastern wall. The total length of the fortress walls is more than 9 kilometers. The barracks of the fortress in wartime could receive up to 20,000 soldiers. Also on the territory of the fortress there were 6 gates and 2 railway tunnels. It was planned to expand and strengthen the fortress, but since it was not necessary to use it for its intended purpose, the plans were not realized.
The fortress was significantly damaged during the Second World War. It was abandoned and for many years continued to collapse under the influence of natural conditions. Currently, the partially restored Ulm Fortress receives visitors.