Fort 13 Jilava

Fort 13 Jilava is a military fortification with thick stone walls, defensive structures, and underground passages across multiple levels. The structure spans a large grounds with various sections dedicated to museum displays and historical artifacts.

The fort was constructed between 1870 and 1890 according to the design of Belgian engineer Henri Alexis Brialmont and formed part of Bucharest's strategic defense network. It served as a military installation before being repurposed as a detention facility.

The fortress later served as a political prison where many Romanian thinkers and opponents of the state experienced confinement under different regimes. Visitors today can walk through the same spaces where this difficult chapter unfolded.

The fort sits about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of Bucharest on the main road toward Giurgiu. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are uneven and there are multiple levels to explore.

The fort is shaped like an ace of spades, showing features of 19th century Belgian military design. This unusual form was deliberate, part of a calculated approach to create strong defensive positions from every angle.

Location: Jilava

Location: Ilfov County

Part of: Fortifications of Bucharest

Address: Str. Sabarului, nr. 1, în cadrul Penitenciarului Jilava, sat Jilava; comuna Jilava

GPS coordinates: 44.33315,26.10683

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24