Fort Frederick William, Military fort in Kędzierzyn-Koźle, Poland
Fort Frederick William is a circular military fort in Kędzierzyn-Koźle with a four-story brick structure measuring about 34 meters around its exterior. Its design divides the interior into 28 sections, each equipped with firing windows to provide wide coverage of the surrounding area.
Construction of the fort took place between 1805 and 1829 as part of the larger Koźle Fortress defensive system protecting the region. In the early 20th century, it was repurposed as a brewery, marking a significant shift from its original military function.
The fort reflects French military engineering principles developed by Marc René de Montalembert, who focused on positioning artillery strategically for maximum defensive impact. This design philosophy shaped how such structures were built across Europe during the early 19th century.
The fort sits along Portowa Street near the village of Kłodnica in a restricted area. Visitors should inquire in advance about access, as special permission is typically required for entry.
Inside the fort are two round staircases and ground-level shelters arranged around a central courtyard. The original wooden ceiling consoles that remain visible throughout offer a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship of its construction period.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
