Skutina, Artillery fort and museum in Sněžné and Olešnice v Orlických horách, Czech Republic.
Skutina is a multi-part military installation with two artillery cabins and underground tunnels connecting all structures across different levels. The complex comprises six separate structures that together form a connected underground system.
Construction of this installation began in the late 1930s but was halted as European tensions escalated toward World War II. The structure never became fully operational and remained as a relic from that turbulent period.
The fort demonstrates Czech military engineering with specialized narrow-gauge railways for ammunition transport and careful defense design. Visitors can observe how engineers planned each space for both function and protection.
Visitors can explore the grounds on marked pathways, and guided tours offer a structured way to understand the layout. Sturdy shoes and some patience help, as certain sections are tight and uneven.
The fort was equipped with specialized narrow-gauge railways to move ammunition efficiently through tunnels, a rare feature in such facilities. These tracks demonstrate how military engineers created practical solutions for the unique challenges of underground transport.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.