Wesel citadel, Military fortress in Wesel, Germany
Wesel citadel is a fortification in Wesel with five bastions arranged in a star pattern, encompassing various structures within its fortified walls across about 34 hectares. The complex includes the main gate, barracks, garrison buildings, and several historic structures that reflect the appearance of a classical European fortress.
Johan de Corbin directed construction of this fortification between 1688 and 1722, which became the largest defensive system in the Rhineland. The fortress was strategically important and left a lasting mark on the military architecture of the region.
The citadel houses the Prussian Museum of North Rhine Westphalia, showcasing regional military and political artifacts from the 17th to 19th centuries. You can see collections that reflect garrison life and the administration of this fortification.
The citadel is open year-round and offers guided tours of the grounds, including the main gate, garrison bakery, and former officers' prison. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the grounds are extensive and require considerable walking to explore.
Construction required enormous financial resources and was a technical masterwork of fortification engineering for its time. The five-bastion design was revolutionary and served as a model for many other fortifications across Europe.
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