Fort Kugelbake, Military fortification in Döse, Cuxhaven, Germany
Fort Kugelbake is a pentagonal military installation near the mouth of the Elbe River. The structure contains gun emplacements, barracks, and defensive walls arranged to control access to the waterway.
Built between 1869 and 1879, the fort was designed to prevent enemy warships from reaching the Elbe estuary. It survived both world wars and was later protected as a historical monument.
The name refers to a navigation landmark that ships once used to find their way along the coast. Visitors can experience how soldiers lived and worked here, and understand the place's role in protecting the region from maritime threats.
The fort is easily accessible from central Cuxhaven and has marked pathways throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore on their own or join guided tours to learn more about the military installation.
The fort features a complete moat surrounding the entire structure, revealing how elaborate the fortifications were. This water-filled trench remains visible today and shows visitors how the defensive system once worked.
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