Imperial fortresses in Bohemia (CZ)

Elbe fortresses, Imperial fortresses Bohemia, Travel recommendations

FORTE CULTURA travel recommendation (CZ)

Diamonds of the Bohemian Lands

The imperial fortresses in Bohemia (CZ) are large fortified towns, some of which were built by the Habsburg emperors in the 17th and 18th centuries. Their purpose was the large-scale defence of the capital Prague and they were located at strategically important points in the country, e.g. passes over the border mountains or river mouths. Their characteristic feature is the so-called bastion fortification ring - brick walls and earth ramparts designed to withstand artillery fire.

As partly ideal fortress cities with chessboard-like layouts, they are among the gems of military architecture. They still amaze us today with their sophisticated dimensions and defence mechanisms, e.g. the arrangement, height and thickness of the walls, the complexity of the underground passages and the levelling water systems.

Today, these fortresses are not only unique architectural and technical monuments, they also tell many stories, closely linked to their builders, defenders, attackers or inhabitants.

Once fortified and mysterious, today they invite visitors to explore the fortifications, scurry through underground corridors and stroll through streets and parks. Let yourself be seduced by the history, stories and nature of the imperial fortresses. Visit festivals, cultural and sporting events throughout the year and discover the forgotten beauty of the bastion fortresses in Bohemia.