FORTE CULTURA Station: Fortified ideal town Josefov (CZ)
Pearl of fortress construction of the KuK monarchy
Military planned city as a bulwark against Prussia in Bohemia
The Josefstadt fortress was built as a fortified ideal city between 1780 and 1787 under Emperor Josef II. The main purpose of the 289-hectare fortress was to protect the northern border of the Austrian Empire against the Kingdom of Prussia. Largely spared from hostilities, the fascinating military architecture of the ideal fortress town has been preserved to this day.
Discover the endless underground tunnels, visit exciting museums or follow the call of nature in the ornithological reserve. Countless re-enactments bring the history of Josefov back to life every year or use the attractive backdrop for music festivals and open-air events.
Experience offers in Josefov
- Well-preserved fortifications: Discover the impressive bastions, ravelins and redoubts that surround the city. The fortress' system of counter mines, which is around 40 kilometres long, is unique and probably the largest in Europe. The fortified ideal city = pearl of fortified architecture
- Exciting themed tours: Immerse yourself in the history of the fortress and learn more about the Austrian monarchy (KuK) and regional history.
- Museums and exhibitions: Visit three exciting museums, including the model of the fortified ideal city Josefov Bastion IV and the renovated artillery casemates in Ravelin XIV. You can also experience cultural events and re-enactments.
- Active offers: Hiking, cycling and water hiking - the surrounding area offers numerous opportunities to experience nature along the Elbe.
- Unique atmosphere: The city's special atmosphere also attracts filmmakers and music festivals such as "Brutal Assault".
Useful information for your visit to Josefov
As an ideal fortified town, Josefov is an extensive monument that offers several tourist attractions within walking distance. A car park for about 50 vehicles is located at Rudé armády 109. The tourist centre and the starting point for guided tours are located at Okružní 34, about 150 m from the car park. There are also bicycle racks in the inner courtyard of Bastion I or in bicycle storage facilities. Temperatures in the underground areas drop to around 10°C. It is recommended that you bring warm clothing for the tours.
SMARTGUIDE: Discover the ideal fortress town of Josefov with an audio guide on your mobile phone. Several language versions available.
Accessibility for people with disabilities:
Barrier-free access is possible to the permanent historical exhibition of the town of Jaroměř (text available in English, Polish and German), the Museum of Military History or the Fortress Forge (text available in English/Polish). Accessible toilets are available, the key can be obtained at the ticket office. The underground tour is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
Combination tickets / special offers: FORTPASS - combination ticket - valid for visits to fortresses Theresienstadt, Josefov, Vyšehrad and Museum Hradec Králové.
Wide range of guided tours for individual travellers, families and groups. Information and booking via www.pevnostjosefov.cz.
FORTE CULTURA Fortress portrait
Get to know the fortified ideal town of Josefov.
Cultural ribbon
fortified monuments
on the Elbe river
From its source in the Czech Giant Mountains to its mouth in the North Sea near Cuxhaven, the Elbe river connects 1091 kilometres of magnificent cultural landscapes.
Conquer the FORTE CULTURA Elbe fortresses and discover the region from a new perspective.
Events in the ideal fortress town of Josefov
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