Border fortifications in the Czech Republic

When Adolf Hitler came to power in Germany in 1933, and didn´t conceal his intentions for the conquest of Europe, the most countries launched a plan.

They started to build permanent border forts. Another important factor which decided on the construction of permanent fortifications was disadvantageous elongated shape of the republic and a large lenght of the border with hostile states.

Inspired by the French Maginot Line and with a help of French military advisors the republic proceeded to build the fortifications.

The first forts built in 1936, were still based on the French model, and formed with the active help of French consultants. However, a better conception of fortifications was gradually developed, which eliminated deficiencies and capital intensity of the French fortifications, and which was later taken over by France alone. The Czechoslovak fortification was a top of fort art of former Europe and in case of its completion, it would be insurmountable for the former Germany arms.

A development plan of fortifications was itemized for 10 years, the fortification work should be completed in 1945. The development of fortifications ran quickly, which is evidenced by the fact that during three years was built over 10000 light objects, 226 heavy objects and 9 artillery forts were under construction. At the same time long mileage of anti-tank and anti-personnel obstacles were built, which formed an integral part of the fortification.

Although the extensive construction of fortifications cost a lot of resources and energy, the fortifications left uncompleted at the start of World War II and were never used. But it is sure that the Czechoslovak fortifications remained like a memorial of a determination of our people to resist.

A postwar usage of the fortification is various. Army has for its purpose some heavy fortifications mainly underground spaces of artillery fort. Some isolated infantry blockhouses were used as a storage of poisons and explosives, sources of potable water or staff stations of civil deference. However, most objects slowly overgrow with vegetation and become desolate.

Remains of Czechoslovak fortifications built in 1936 – 1938 remind the period before the World War II round Náchod:

Dobrošov - This remarkable fortress area lies on 20 ha. During its construction the extensive connecting corridors were mined in long of 1 750 meters and in depth from 20 to 39 meters. Around the fortress leads a nature trail aimed at fortifications.
Nearby Dobrošov you can visit an infantry blockhouse Birkenau.

The infantry blockhouse Birkenau is a stronghold of reinforced concrete from 1937. After the occupation of the republic the fort was destroyed by Wehrmacht in 1939. It was renovated to its original pre-war status, including the internal equipment, thanks to the Club of military history.

Both forts are open to the public.