Dęblin Fortress, Military fortress in Dęblin, Poland
Dęblin Fortress is a 19th-century military complex located where the Wieprz and Vistula rivers meet, featuring multiple defensive structures spread across both riverbanks. Seven fortification works are distributed between the two sides of the Vistula River, with three on the right bank.
The fortress was built between 1837 and 1847 under Russian general Iwan Dehn's supervision when Poland was under Russian control. During the Second World War, it served as a prisoner of war camp holding inmates from across Europe and Africa.
The fortress reflects how major river crossings shaped military thinking in the 19th century across this region. The layout shows how commanders valued control over transportation routes and trade passages.
The best way to explore the site is on foot, planning to cross bridges between the riverbanks to view structures on both sides. The ground can be wet and uneven, especially near the river edges, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
During the Second World War, around 2000 prisoners from at least five countries were interned here, including inmates from France, Belgium, Poland, Senegal, and Italy. Ruins of the camp barracks remain visible today, marking this chapter of the site's past.
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