Ulm Fortress

Ulm Fortress is a military stronghold spanning both sides of the Danube River, protected by an extensive wall system and a series of separate forts arranged around it. This network of fortifications encircles the cities of Ulm and Neu-Ulm in a wide perimeter.

Construction started in the 1840s as part of Prussian military planning and German defense strategy following the Napoleonic Wars. The project took many decades to complete as new forts were added over time.

Today the fortress houses theaters, museums, and concert halls where locals and visitors experience art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. This modern use brings contemporary life into the historical structures.

You can explore parts of the site on your own or join guided tours to see the preserved military structures and underground passages. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and some areas have damp conditions.

It was one of the first fortresses to use a polygonal defense system, an innovation in military design that provided more efficient protection than traditional methods. This approach later influenced fortress construction across Europe.