Spandau Gord, Medieval fortress on Havel island, Berlin, Germany
Spandau Gord is a fortress on an island in the Havel and was built with four corner towers and thick stone walls. The interior consists of a central courtyard surrounded by defensive structures and historic buildings.
The fortress was built between 1559 and 1594 by Count Rochus zu Lynar and replaced an earlier Slavic settlement. It served for centuries as an important defensive installation on the Havel.
The fortress now houses a museum displaying sculptures from across Berlin, including monuments to Prussian rulers and historical figures. Visitors can see how these works are arranged throughout the rooms and courtyards, learning about the city's artistic heritage.
Visitors enter the fortress via a drawbridge to the main gate, where guided tours are available in various languages. Most interior spaces are easily accessible and well signposted for exploration.
The Julius Tower was originally a watchtower with exceptionally solid walls and shapes the fortress's silhouette. This tower is one of the oldest structures on the island and demonstrates the original construction methods of the site.
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