Wilhelmstein, Artificial island fortress in Steinhuder Meer, Germany
Wilhelmstein is a star-shaped fortress constructed on an artificial island in Lake Steinhude, lying about 2 kilometers from shore. The site contains barracks, storage areas, gun emplacements, and a central courtyard, all arranged compactly within its geometric defense walls.
Count Wilhelm of Schaumburg-Lippe founded the fortress in 1761 as a response to the political tensions of his era. Five years of intensive construction were required to establish the foundation and build the defensive structures.
The fortress takes its name from Count Wilhelm, who commissioned it as a symbol of military engineering innovation for the region. Walking through the star-shaped layout, visitors can see how the design reflects the defensive thinking of its era.
Boats run regularly from Steinhude and Mardorf to reach the fortress across the lake. The island is open to visitors, but offers limited facilities, so it is helpful to plan ahead for food and supplies before making the crossing.
In its early years, the fortress served as a testing ground for military innovations and housed Germany's first submarine, the Steinhuder Hecht, built in 1772. A model of this pioneering underwater vessel remains on display at the island museum today.
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