Terezín, Fortress town in Ústí nad Labem Region, Czech Republic
Terezín is a fortified town in Ústí nad Labem Region in the Czech Republic, composed of a main citadel and barracks buildings. The complex sits at the confluence of the Ohře and Elbe rivers and includes ramparts, casemates and several preserved bastions.
Emperor Joseph II ordered the construction of the fortress in 1780 to protect important river crossings against Prussian troops. During World War II the site was used as a ghetto and transit camp, completely changing its original military purpose.
The site bears Empress Maria Theresa's name and now displays exhibition rooms where visitors can see artwork, poems and musical scores created during occupation. Many rooms document daily life and the forbidden artistic activities that were secretly maintained.
The site is easily walkable and the main memorial locations sit close together. A visit takes several hours, so plan enough time and bring weather-appropriate clothing.
The fortress never experienced an actual military siege despite being maintained for that purpose over centuries. Its star-shaped layout with moat and underground passages remained intact without ever being truly tested.
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