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Artillery Battery No.1 (Northern Fort): Liepāja's Coastal Fortress

Explore the haunting beauty of Liepāja's Northern Fort: a 19th-century fortress turned street art canvas on the Baltic coast. Free entry!

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Explore the haunting remains of Artillery Battery No.1, also known as the Northern Fort, a late 19th-century coastal defense structure near Liepāja, Latvia. Partially demolished and now adorned with street art, the fort offers a unique blend of historical exploration and urban decay amidst scenic seaside views.

A brief summary to Artillery battery No.1 (Northern Fort)

  • Jātnieku iela 25, Liepāja, 3414, LV

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and potentially hazardous due to the ruined state of the fortifications.
  • Explore the area during daylight hours, as there is no artificial lighting and the underground structures can be disorienting.
  • Pay attention to warning signs and avoid walking under the fort ruins, as the coastal area is prone to collapse.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique blend of historical architecture and contemporary street art.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the coastal winds can be strong and the area is exposed.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Liepāja city center, take Bus No. 5 towards 'Karosta'. The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes. Get off at the 'Karosta' stop, and walk straight down Jātnieku iela for about 1 km. The Artillery Battery No. 1 will be on your left at Jātnieku iela 25. A single ride ticket purchased in advance costs €0.90, or €1.50 when purchased from the driver. Consider purchasing a day ticket for €3.00 if you plan to use public transport extensively.

  • Walking

    From Liepāja's Rožu laukums (main square), head north on Zivju iela until you reach Jātnieku iela. Turn left onto Jātnieku iela and continue straight for approximately 2 km. You'll pass through residential areas and parks. The Artillery Battery No. 1 will be on your right at Jātnieku iela 25. Allow approximately 30-40 minutes for the walk.

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Discover more about Artillery battery No.1 (Northern Fort)

Artillery Battery No. 1, or the Northern Fort, is a compelling historical site located in Karosta, Liepāja. Constructed in the late 19th century as part of Liepāja Fortress, it served to protect the city's naval base from potential attacks. In 1908, the fort was deemed a strategic error and partially demolished, with some cannons moved to Kaunas Fortress and others melted down. The fortifications were blown up twice. Today, the site stands as a partially exploded labyrinth of artillery batteries, underground structures, and powder warehouses. Street art covers many of the walls. Visitors can explore these ruins, offering a glimpse into military history and a unique post-apocalyptic atmosphere. The Northern Fort is visually impressive and is the best-known part of the Liepāja Fortress. Visitors should exercise caution due to the dangerous, collapsing coastline. Despite the demolition, the fort remains an integral part of Liepāja's history, attracting those interested in military heritage and urban exploration.

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