Western Fort in Świnoujście, Military fort in Świnoujście, Poland.
The Western Fort in Świnoujście is a square-shaped fortification with thick brick walls, artillery casemates, and underground structures. A defensive moat surrounds the entire complex, which covers approximately two hectares of land.
The installation was built between 1848 and 1860 and served as a crucial military stronghold in the region. The battleship Schleswig Holstein departed from here to launch operations that triggered World War II.
The fort houses a historical museum displaying military equipment and objects recovered from regional shipwrecks that visitors can explore. You can see cannons, sea mines, and torpedos that document different phases of military use.
Visitors should bring warm clothing because the underground sections stay cool year-round, especially during summer visits. The narrow passages and low ceilings require care when exploring the casemates and tunnels.
After 1945, Russian forces built three concrete bunkers inside the complex, making different military occupations visible. These later additions show how the fort was adapted after the war ended.
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