Fortresses in Magdeburg

The Fortresses in Magdeburg form a defensive system spread across multiple locations in the city, featuring ramparts, bastions, and sections of underground passages beneath the streets. The structures reveal different construction periods and were designed to encircle the old town as a protective ring.

The fortifications began during the medieval period and were substantially rebuilt and expanded later, particularly during the 17th century. This transformation made Magdeburg one of the region's most important military bases during that era.

The fortress grounds serve as a venue for exhibitions and public events that bring the city's past to life for visitors today. Walking through these spaces, you can sense how important they were to people living here over centuries.

The fortress sites are reachable on foot and accessible through various entry points around the city center, with some areas offering free access. Visiting multiple locations helps you see different parts of the defensive system and understand how they connect.

Kilometers of underground tunnels and casemates run beneath the city, originally built to serve defense and supply functions for the fortress. These hidden passages are partly accessible today and offer an unusual look at the military engineering of past centuries.