Fortresses on the Upper Rhine

Western fortifications

Some Westwall bunkers were disguised with structures and paintings to make them look like houses. One such example is the "camouflaged bunker" in Kehl-Neumühl. Built in 1938 as a Regelbau 10a, it was modified in 1939 with an upper floor, which was inhabited from that point on. The camouflage structure was removed in 2007. The concrete filling, which had rendered the bunker unusable in 1947, was painstakingly excavated. A visit to the bunker can be combined with tours of the fortification systems around Kehl and Strasbourg, built by the French Kingdom (Vauban), the German Confederation, the German Empire, and the French Maginot Line.

Western fortifications

The Hornisgrinde is the highest mountain in the northern Black Forest, offering breathtaking views stretching as far as the Vosges, the Alps, and the Swabian Alb. For 60 years (1939–1999), it was a military restricted area, and traces of this past can still be found across the mountain plateau.With certified guides, visitors can gain fascinating insights into the mountain’s 60-year military history. The tour includes access through a hidden entrance into the Hornisgrinde Bunker, the only preserved bunker from the Cold War era. Inside, guests will learn intriguing details about its origins and purpose. Back on the surface, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views, explore the high moor, and experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.

German Federation

Construction of the Federal Fortress of Rastatt began on November 15, 1842. The fortress complex was divided into three forts: Leopold Fortress, Friedrich Fortress, and Ludwig Fortress. Only a few structures from Rastatt’s fortress era (1842–1890) have been preserved. Many ramparts and trenches were leveled, and some outworks were dismantled, with their stone material repurposed for the construction of residential buildings. However, several structures remain, including the Karlsruhe Gate, Kehl Gate, Garrison Hospital, Körner Magazine, and Lunette 42. Today, visitors can explore the underground defense corridors of Bastion 27 at Karlsruhe Gate and the casemates along the southern ring (formerly the Contrescarpe Gallery).

Lines and entrenchments

Margrave Ludwig Wilhelm of Baden, known as "Türkenlouis" for his victories against the Ottomans, ordered the construction of an 86 km long defensive line between the Black Forest and the Odenwald from 1695 to 1697. Built using forced labor, the Eppingen Lines consisted of ramparts, ditches, barricades, and palisades. Today, a high-quality hiking trail follows the course of this historic fortification from Eppingen to Mühlacker, passing through the Stromberg-Heuchelberg Nature Park. Parts of the Eppingen Lines have been reconstructed, and nine large sculptures by artist Hinrich Zürn illustrate the history of the fortifications, the impact of past wars on the local population, and the significance of a united Europe today.

Lines and entrenchments

The Ettlingen Lines were built in 1707 during the War of the Spanish Succession to stop the French from advancing into the territory east of the Rhine. They were further reinforced and expanded in 1733 and 1738. The fortifications consisted of 5-meter-deep trenches with wooden barricades and massive earthen ramparts topped with oak palisades. The Ettlingen Lines stretched from the Rhine, north of Karlsruhe, to Dobel and the Eyach Valley, connecting with the Eppingen Lines and the Black Forest Line. They were part of a complex defense system extending from Neckargmünd to the High Rhine. About 100 meters in front of the lines, 10-meter-high watchtowers were placed at regular intervals—some of which have been reconstructed today.

Western fortifications

The Westwall bunker on Kehlerstraße is not the largest of its kind, but it is the most frequently built model (Regelbau 10 – fortified shelter for 15 soldiers). With meter-thick walls and heavy iron doors, nestled in a hollow in the ground, it stands as the last intact Westwall bunker in Rastatt. Unlike the massive bunkers of the French Maginot Line, this structure is much more compact. After the war, it was repurposed as a prison, spared from the usual demolitions, but later fell into disrepair and was gradually filled with debris. Following the withdrawal of the French forces, the Historical Society of Rastatt restored the bunker. Today, guided tours are offered at set times or by appointment.

Vauban's legacy

The fortified town of La Petite Pierre is located in the heart of the Northern Vosges Nature Park, 25 km from Saverne and 60 km from Strasbourg. The castle, modernized by Vauban, sits atop an imposing sandstone spur and served as a strategic point for controlling passage between Alsace and Lorraine. Explore the charming "Staedtel" (Old Town), the castle, the Seal Museum, the Springerle Museum, 15th-century frescoes, and impressive sandstone rock formations. A walk along the rampart path (30 minutes) allows visitors to discover the extent of the fortifications and explore underground cisterns.

Vauban's legacy

Where modernity meets the Middle Ages… From the terraces of Château de Lichtenberg, the colossal ruins made of pink sandstone offer a stunning view over the village of the same name, revealing an extraordinary panorama. The fortress tells a turbulent history dating back to the 13th century. Explore this "ship of centuries" through interpretive panels and interactive boxes, marked trails, and year-round events that unveil its many secrets. The cafeteria, complete with a terrace and lounge chairs, invites visitors to relax and enjoy the magnificent view over the Northern Vosges.

Vauban's legacy

Perched on a rocky outcrop, the Citadel of Bitche stands proudly with its imposing walls and bastions. Originally a castle of the Dukes of Lorraine, it was transformed into a fortress between 1680 and 1754 under the direction of the renowned Marquis de Vauban and architect Cormontaigne, at the request of the French kings. The citadel bears all the features of 17th and 18th-century military architecture. In the labyrinth of underground corridors, visitors can immerse themselves in the events of the historic Siege of 1870/71 through cinematic reproductions. The citadel also houses a restored chapel and a museum, while interactive terminals allow guests to explore the architectural details in more depth.

Vauban's legacy

At the command of King Louis XIV, the brilliant fortress architect Vauban built a strong fortification on a Rhine island starting in 1687, with two bridgeheads, to secure the northeastern border of the kingdom. A century later, the fort had grown into a fortified garrison town with 4,000 inhabitants before it was besieged and destroyed by the Prussians and Austrians in 1793/1794. Today, the foundations of the fort and the bridgehead remain preserved, standing as a testament to a prestigious military history. It is a fascinating site for history enthusiasts and hikers alike.

Maginot Line

The Casemate Oberroedern-Sud, built in the 1930s, is part of the main resistance line of the Maginot Line. It was commanded by Lieutenant Rieffel and, as one of the first casemates, features several unique characteristics. In June 1940, it was bombed and attacked when the Wehrmacht attempted to breach the Maginot Line at Oberroedern. Since 2008, the casemate has been open to the public, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of soldiers in 1940.

Imperial fortifications

Fort Podbielski is the "youngest" of the 14 forts in the Strasbourg fortification belt. It was built between 1879 and 1882 near Mundolsheim and underwent several modifications until 1893. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was reinforced with two gun-equipped casemates (East and West), transforming it into Fort Ducrot In 1936, the fort was integrated into the Maginot Line as a command post. After World War II, it remained unused for several years until the local community purchased it in the 1990s. Since then, extensive restoration work has been carried out. After 10 years of work and 45,000 hours of volunteer labor, the fort is now open to the public for visits.

Maginot Line

The Schoenenbourg Artillery Fort is the largest fortification of the Maginot Line that can be visited in the Alsace region. At a depth of 30 meters, a 3 km-long underground tunnel system offers a remarkable insight into the daily life of the soldiers stationed there at the time. Built between 1931 and 1935 using the most advanced technology of that era, the fort housed a crew of 630 men. During 1939/40, it was heavily bombarded by the Luftwaffe and the heavy artillery of the Wehrmacht. In 1940 alone, over 3,000 German bombs and shells hit the fort. After the war, the fort became a symbol of unity between nations.

Maginot Line

The Maginot Line casemates are an integral part of the landscape of northern Alsace. The Four-à-Chaux fortification in Lembach was built between 1930 and 1935 from concrete and steel to defend the German-French border during World War II. It was one of the key positions along the defensive line and featured a unique electric inclined lift that was exclusive to the Alsace region. The fort still houses many historical artifacts. Visitors, guided by volunteers, can explore the casemate up to 30 meters underground, discovering areas where the 580-man crew once lived, including the kitchen, dormitories, hospital, officers' quarters, and the central command post.

Lines and entrenchments

To defend his territory, Louis XIV had the Lauter Line constructed in 1706. This line consisted of a several-meter-high earthen embankment, complemented by a ditch, fifty outworks, and dikes for flooding the Bienwald forest. The defense line ran approximately twenty kilometers along the Lauter River, stretching between Wissembourg and Lauterbourg. It was even used during the Revolutionary Wars. Today, there is a marked hiking trail along the Lauter Line, where visitors can still discover remnants from that era.

Maginot Line

The Esch casemate is located near Hatten, about 13 km southeast of Fort Schoenenbourg. It housed a crew of 24 soldiers and was equipped for close-range defense. During the summer months, the exterior of the casemate can be explored, providing valuable insight into the defensive strategy of the Maginot Line. A museum on-site informs visitors about the technologies of the time and the battles of 1940 between the Germans and French, as well as the 1944/45 battles between the Americans and Germans. The AALMA Association offers regular guided tours of both Fort Schoenenbourg and the Esch casemate.

Set off on an adventure at Fleckenstein Castle, nestled in an exceptional natural setting! This spectacular site on the defence line of the combined fortresses of Alsace and the Palatinate, built on and in an exceptionally large pink sandstone rock, sits at the heart of two Regional Nature Parks, which combine here to form the largest forest in Europe. It offers breathtaking views and a unique immersion in history. Explore its staircases and troglodytic rooms, its emotionally-charged ruins, then take on the challenges of a life-size game for the whole family with the Château des Défis®. History, nature and adventure: an unforgettable outing awaits you!

German Federation

The imposing Fortress City of Germersheim was built between 1834 and 1861 at the command of King Ludwig I of Bavaria as a "bulwark against France." Today, it still shines as the largest Bavarian fortress outside of Bavaria. Explore the diverse and exciting tourist offerings in Germersheim Fortress City with FORTE CULTURA®, including scenic city tours, carriage rides, fortress wine tastings, bike and Segway tours, and much more…

Vauban's legacy

Vauban recommended fortifying Landau as a potential gateway into Alsace. Between 1688 and 1691, this recommendation was carried out with great effort. A 7 km-long canal was built to transport materials from Albersweiler to Landau, south of the Queich. The military administration "corrected" the city's appearance in 1689 by burning down the western part, which was filled with many timber-framed houses. The new fortress, with a 2,278-meter-long main wall, was highly modern militarily but was repeatedly captured during sieges. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the fortress was further improved with new works and barracks.

Vauban's legacy

In Bad Dürkheim, above the Isenach Valley, stands the Hardenburg, once one of the most powerful castles in the Palatinate. This structure is considered a prime example of a fortified castle, blending the characteristics of a fortress and a palace. In the 16th century, it was expanded into a defensive Renaissance residence. The massive walls, bastions, turrets, walkways, and catacombs still bear witness to its fort-like nature. A permanent exhibition provides information about the history and rulers of the Hardenburg, and an exciting multimedia tour brings the castle's golden age to life.

Lines and entrenchments

The Queich Lines were built as field fortifications during the Austrian War of Succession starting in 1743, stretching from Annweiler through Landau to the Rhine. To create widespread flooding, about 30 dikes were constructed, with outworks placed in front of them. With the onset of the Revolutionary Wars in 1792, the fortifications in Offenbach, Ottersheim, and Bellheim were strengthened with outworks, and a redoubt was built in Hördt, with the ditch still visible today. As the left bank of the Rhine became part of France, the Queich Lines lost their military importance.

Cold War

The communications facilities of the "Cold War" were used to operate a secure and independent military communication network. 27 GSVBw nodes (GSVBw: Bundeswehr Basic Network Switching and Switching Station) were spread across the country. A special design was the node in St. Martin, where this communications operations area was built within an underground tunnel system. The facility spans 3,000 m² and is arranged in long tunnels (120 m) and cross tunnels (72 m) with a height of 6 meters. A unique feature is the water tunnel, which was designed to ensure the independent supply of personnel and equipment.

Western fortifications

The 620-kilometer-long Westwall fortification line stretched along the German western border between Wesel and Basel starting in 1936. Thousands of bunkers, trenches, and minefields were built to prevent enemy penetration into the Reich. Today, former enemies have become neighbors, and nature has reclaimed its territory. Discover what the construction and downfall of the Westwall meant for the people of the region and for the local flora and fauna. The WestWallWeg leads you through picturesque nature along the remains of the Westwall.
WestWallWeg Bad Bergzaberner Land - Follow the "Otterbach Section", one of the most heavily fortified parts of the Westwall.

Museums

The border location of Rastatt made it a focal point of European-German politics and military conflicts. Founded in 1934, the museum has been located in Rastatt Castle since 1956. It is one of the significant military history museums in the German-speaking world. The collection focuses on the relationship between the state, society, and the military from the late Middle Ages until the end of World War I. Highlights include a large diorama of the Battle of Slankamen (1691) with 5,000 lead figures, a relief model of the Federal Fortress Rastatt (1860), and artillery models from 1820-1860.

Western fortifications

The Westwall fortification line stretched 620 kilometers from 1936 along the German western border between Wesel and Basel. Thousands of bunkers, trenches, and minefields were built to prevent enemy penetration into the Reich. Today, the last three remaining bunkers of the Westwall in the South Palatinate are monuments from the Nazi era. The exhibition provides information about the construction of the Westwall, the expropriation, and forced displacement of the residents along the border, as well as the militarization of large segments of the population.

Museums

The Musée Mémorial des Combats et de la Libération en Alsace du Nord (Musée 2 MCLADN) is located in a former monastery, also known as the burial place of Emperor Barbarossa’s parents. The museum focuses on the history of Northern Alsace from 1870 to 1945. On over 460 m² of exhibition space, 3,500 objects depict this turbulent era. Dioramas include representations of a school class in the "re-Germanizing" Alsace from 1940, as well as the conscription of a "Malgré-Nous" (forced conscript). Scents and sounds further immerse visitors in the atmosphere.

Museums

On the morning of August 6, 1870, the Battle of Woerth, Gunstett, and Morsbronn began. The forces were unequally matched: 126,000 men and 300 artillery pieces on the German side versus 46,000 men and 120 cannons of the poorly prepared French. Despite heroic defense, the French were defeated. By the end of the battle, 20,000 soldiers were dead or wounded. As the troops retreated, Mac Mahon sent a telegram to Napoleon III, announcing the defeat and naming it the "Battle of Reichshoffen". The museum in Woerth's Renaissance castle informs about this painful chapter in history.

Western fortifications

The Emilie Bunker is one of the few remaining structures from the Westwall. Stretching from Kleve to Basel, the Westwall included around 18,000 bunkers. Named after Emilie H., who lived in the camouflaged building above the bunker during the war and continued living there until her death in the early 1980s, the Regelbau 11 was converted into a museum in 2009. The museum is funded by a voluntary association, Museumsbunker Emilie e.V., founded in 2017, which works to preserve the site. "Emilie" is open for visits upon request.

Museums

The large shelter ABRI in Hatten, located about 50 km from Strasbourg and 40 km from Karlsruhe, was one of 19 fortifications of the Maginot Line in the Hatten area. With a capacity for 220 men, ABRI was the largest. The bunker was constructed from 1930 and was used to house a company in wartime. It was occupied by French troops from 1936-1940. The museum commemorates the victims of 1939-1945, and 28 restored rooms including sleeping quarters, a kitchen, a well, a hospital, a machine room, ventilation systems, and close defense devices can be visited today.

Western fortifications

This bunker is part of the rare category of sanitary shelters, intended to provide care for injured soldiers until they could be transported to field hospitals. It is a Regelbau 32, the only one preserved in Baden-Württemberg. Built with a 2-meter thick roof and walls and typical rounded ceiling edges, it is one of the bunkers built during the winter of 1938/39 in the Upper Rhine Defense Line, constructed by the Reich Labor Service. Later, it was used as an air-raid shelter for civilians. The museum showcases both military and civilian objects from 1933 to 1945.

Museums & historical stagings

The TERRITOIRE 1870 association promotes and coordinates events to commemorate the 1870 events in Northern Alsace and the Pays de Bitche. The tragic events took place in nine towns: Bitche, Froeschwiller, Gundershoffen, Morsbronn-les-Bains, Niederbronn-les-Bains, Reichshoffen, Soultz-sous-Forêts, Wissembourg, and Wœrth. The association is planning more than 50 events to mark the 150th anniversary of these events, including exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and memorial ceremonies starting from July 2021.