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Fort Mutzig: A Colossus of Military History

Explore Europe's largest 19th-century fortress, a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation in Alsace.

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Fort Mutzig, also known as Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II, is a massive German fortification built between 1893 and 1916 near Mutzig, Alsace. It was designed to defend Strasbourg and block French offensives. Today, it stands as a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation and a monument to military engineering.

A brief summary to Mutzig Fort - Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II

Local tips

  • Wear warm clothing, as the interior of the fort maintains a consistent temperature of around 14°C (57°F).
  • The tour involves walking through underground tunnels and climbing stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.
  • Allow at least 2.5 hours for a comprehensive visit, including both the underground and surface areas.
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Getting There

  • Train

    From Strasbourg, take a train to Molsheim. From Molsheim, you can take the Line 911 bus towards the fort. Alternatively, during certain times of the year, a free shuttle is available from Mutzig or Urmatt station to the fort. Train tickets from Strasbourg to Molsheim cost approximately €3-€7. A taxi from Molsheim to the fort will cost approximately €25-€35.

  • Car

    From Strasbourg, drive approximately 31 km west on the D392 and D45 towards Mutzig and then follow signs to Dinsheim-sur-Bruche. The drive takes about 30 minutes. Free parking is available at the fort. Expect to pay approximately €5-€7 in fuel costs.

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Discover more about Mutzig Fort - Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II

Fort Mutzig, originally named Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II, is one of the largest and most powerful fortifications in Europe. Constructed by the German Empire from 1893 to 1916, it spans 254 hectares and contains 40,000 square meters of underground space. The fort was intended to protect Strasbourg and prevent any French offensive into the Rhine plain. Fort Mutzig was a pioneering example of modern fortification, incorporating concrete, armored turrets, and on-site electrical power generation. The complex included infantry casemates, armored artillery batteries, observation turrets, machine gun pillboxes, and firing trenches. The fort also featured a power plant, bakery, kitchens, sleeping quarters, a surgery, and a hospital. Despite its size and strength, Fort Mutzig never saw major combat. In 1914, a brief skirmish occurred between French forces and the fort, but the French withdrew after suffering heavy casualties. After World War I, Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France. During World War II, the fort was briefly reoccupied by the Germans and was damaged by friendly fire. Today, Fort Mutzig is a museum and memorial, offering visitors a glimpse into military history and Franco-German relations. Visitors can explore the fort's various structures and underground tunnels, and learn about its historical significance.

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