EN 
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DE Guide to the Municipal Fortification Route in Kołobrzeg: History and the present day
AttractionKołobrzeg, picturesquely situated on the Baltic Sea, not only tempts with its golden beaches, but also with its rich historical heritage. Among its many attractions, the City Fortification Route stands out as a special place on the tourist map of the city. Leading through a variety of fortifications, from ancient defensive walls to monumental fortresses, this trail hides fragments of the past, armed struggles and military architecture that make Kolobrzeg unique. For history enthusiasts, military enthusiasts and families looking for educational entertainment, the City Fortification Trail offers an unforgettable journey through the centuries. In this article, we invite you to discover its secrets, pointing out the most interesting points and telling stories that will come alive before your eyes at every turn.
From the past to the present: The history of Kolobrzeg's fortresses
Kolobrzeg's fortifications are a complex, multi-faceted chapter in the city's history, which began as early as the Middle Ages. The first fortifications were of a wooden and earthen nature and served to defend against invasions. The greatest development of the fortifications, however, occurred during the reign of Prussia and their intensive expansion in the 19th century.
The Kolobrzeg fortress as we know it today is primarily the work of Prussian military engineering. The city's walls, bastions and fortifications were built to withstand modern artillery. They underwent their test of endurance during the siege of Kolobrzeg in 1945, which caused considerable damage, but also honoured the city as a symbol of steadfastness.
After the end of hostilities, many of Kołobrzeg's forts were razed to the ground or abandoned. Today, however, thanks to the work of conservationists and the desire to save this heritage, we can admire the restored fragments of the defensive walls, as well as the remains of the bastions that once formed the basis of Kolobrzeg's military importance.
These monuments, although once strictly used for warfare, are now seen as important elements of the city's identity and history. The Fortifications Route is not only a testimony to the past, but also a tourist attraction that allows one to understand the need for protection at the time and the strategic importance of Kolobrzeg.
Highlights of the Municipal Fortification Route in Kołobrzeg
When talking about the Kołobrzeg Fortification City Trail, it is impossible to omit St. George's Bastion - one of the best-preserved elements of Kołobrzeg's former fortress. Once a part of the city's defence, the bastion is today a centre of leisure and history, with numerous festivals and historical reconstructions.
The next point on the sightseeing map is Fort Ujście, located at the mouth of the Parsęta River. Enthusiasts of military history will find here exhibits related to the Cold War and interesting pieces of weaponry. It is also an ideal place to admire the picturesque seaside landscape of Kołobrzeg.
Not to be missed is the Fuse Tower, one of the oldest buildings in Kolobrzeg, which once served as a gunpowder warehouse. This building, which is now part of the Museum Polish Arms, will take each visitor into the depths of the city's urban and military heritage.
Also noteworthy are the remains of Charles Bastion, which overlooks the view over the entire city. Although it is not as well preserved as other parts of the fortifications, its history and the remaining fragments of the walls provide an opportunity to reflect on the time that overpowers even the strongest defensive structures.
The last of the Trail's key points is the Miele Redoubt, part of Kolobrzeg's outer defence ring. Although largely levelled today, it is the site of numerous historical re-enactments during the summer season and is also a starting point for further exploration of the town's charming surroundings.
Unusual stories and curiosities related to Kolobrzeg's fortifications
Kolobrzeg's fortifications are not only walls and bastions, but also a treasure trove of fascinating stories. One of them is the story of the mysterious tunnels. It is commonly said that there is a network of undiscovered corridors under the city, which were used in the past to travel between strategic defence points. Although most of them have not been explored to this day, the very idea of hidden passages continues to electrify the imagination of locals and tourists.
Another interesting monument is the Kolobrzeg Fortress - a relic of a powerful Prussian fortress. The castle, shelters and other fragments developed in the 19th century testify to how complex and well-thought-out the medieval defence systems were. It is worth mentioning that in the post-war years, these structures served a variety of functions - from warehouses, to shelters for the civilian population, to cultural roles such as exhibitions and concerts.
A surprising aspect of the fortifications is that some elements of the defensive buildings are woven into the city's residential infrastructure. Spending time in Kolobrzeg, therefore, one can come across a unique combination of historical architecture and modern architecture, which creates a unique urban landscape. This integration of the old with the new shows how much the fortifications are inscribed in the life of the city.
Get ready for your visit: practical information
When planning a visit to Kolobrzeg's Municipal Fortification Route, it is worth starting by setting a convenient date. Particularly in summer, the facilities are very popular. Opening hours vary depending on the season, and in winter some sections may not be accessible due to severe weather conditions or conservation work.
We can purchase entrance tickets directly in front of the entrance to most venues. Prices are affordable, often with discounts for different social groups such as children, students or senior citizens. It is also possible to purchase combined tickets for several venues, which is an economical solution for those saving time and resources.
Guiding services are also worth considering. Local guides offer a wide range of thematic tours that will enrich your visit with professional historical commentaries and anecdotes. For families with children, special versions of the tour, adapted to younger participants, are recommended.
Finding the individual points of interest on the Fortifications Trail will be easier with a map available at tourist information centres and some hotels, and sometimes with mobile applications. Before setting out on the trail, it is also important to ensure that you are suitably dressed and in good footwear, as the terrain is often uneven and requires walking over steps or bumpy paths.
Kołobrzeg's fortifications are rich in history, which can best be appreciated by preparing for a visit. Keeping these practical tips in mind, you can take full pleasure in discovering their secrets and beauty.
What else in Kołobrzeg? Attractions along the Route of Fortifications
One of the stops worth considering during your stay in Kołobrzeg is the picturesque Lighthouse Marine. Measuring 26 metres high, it offers visitors a spectacular view of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding area, a perfect complement to the knowledge of the historic fortifications.
Walking along the pier, you will come across the Museum of Polish Arms. It houses an extensive military exhibition that perfectly resonates with the theme of the city's military past. Objects related to the history of the Polish Arms and interactive exhibitions are a valuable highlight for history buffs.
Kołobrzeg's Town Hall is another point on the map of tourist attractions. Built in a neo-Gothic style, it not only impresses with its architecture, but also provides an opportunity to learn about local history and culture thanks to the exhibitions and cultural events often organised there.
The Kolobrzeg Park of Culture and Leisure, which invites you to relax among the greenery, is also not to be missed. It is an ideal place for families with children, who, after a dynamic day of sightseeing in the fortifications, can enjoy the peace and quiet and attractions available in the park, such as playgrounds or spending time in nature.
Discovering the historical traces of Kolobrzeg by following the City Fortification Trail is like a journey back in time, which with each bastion, each wall and casemate reveals anew the richness and drama of the history of this unique city. Encouraged by the stories, pinacles of the past and contemporary amenities, tourists will invariably find reasons to return to the trail and pass on their fascination with Kolobrzeg. Undoubtedly, the City Fortification Trail is an attraction that allows you to understand the city and its both turbulent and heroic past. It is undoubtedly a place that, with its stories, draws you in and inspires you to explore further, and left with a sense of a deeper connection to Kolobrzeg's history and culture.