Fort VII

Fort VII is a military fortification with underground passages and barracks arranged on different levels, enclosed by thick stone walls and surrounding moats. The structure displays the military design of the 1800s with spaces for storage, quarters, and defense.

The fort began as a Prussian military stronghold built in the 1800s. After 1939, it became the first concentration camp established in occupied Poland under Nazi control.

The displays inside show personal items and records from those held here during the occupation. You can see how this place affected the lives of ordinary people.

The fort is open to visitors and guided tours are available to help you understand the layout and history. The grounds have uneven surfaces and underground areas can be damp and cool, so wear appropriate clothing.

This fort became the site of early systematic gassing experiments in 1939, a dark chapter of history that visitors often miss. These trials informed methods that would later be used elsewhere.

Location: Poznań

Architects: Hans Alexis von Biehler

GPS coordinates: 52.41690,16.86810

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09