II Fort

II Fort is a military fortification in Kaunas with thick concrete walls, underground passages, and strategically positioned defensive structures. The facility extends underground with multiple levels and chambers that together form a complex defensive system.

The fort was built between 1882 and 1915 as part of the Kaunas Fortress complex to protect the western borders of the Russian Empire. Its construction integrated the most advanced defensive technologies of that period and influenced fortress designs for decades.

This fortification shows how people in the late 1800s approached border defense, and its layout reflects the military thinking of that era. The structures demonstrate the craftsmanship and effort that went into protection strategies of the time.

Visitors should expect narrow, cool passages and changing elevations, especially underground where conditions can be damp. Sturdy shoes with good grip are important, as some walkways can be slippery and there are no elevators.

The fort contains a sophisticated ventilation system that was revolutionary for the time and improved the safety of soldiers in underground areas. Such technical solutions were extremely rare in the 1880s and show how advanced this facility was.