Old Arsenal of Mainz Fortress, Military fortress near Mainz Old Town, Germany.
The Old Arsenal of Mainz Fortress is a fortified compound on Jakobsberg hill with four corner towers and massive bastions in the French military style. The entire structure forms a large square with tall walls that remain intact today.
The fortress was built in 1605 as an arsenal for Mainz's military power. Under Prince-Elector Johann Philipp von Schönborn, a major overhaul in 1655 modernized the defensive system.
The site once housed the seat of Mainz's rulers and still carries traces of that power in its walls. Walking through the grounds, visitors sense the weight of that past and see signs of former authority everywhere.
The site sits on a hill southwest of the Old Town and is easily reached on foot. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the paths are uneven and several steps must be climbed.
The layout of the compound incorporates remains of a Benedictine abbey from 1050. These older structures were cleverly woven into the defense line during fortress construction.
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