Fortress Magdeburg-Bastion Braunschweig

The origins of Magdeburg's fortifications date back to the 13th century when the first city walls were erected. With the advent of firearms in the 15th and 16th centuries, expansions took place, fortifying the Elbe front and creating new city gates with gun towers. These structures proved effective during sieges, such as that of 1550/51. During the Thirty Years' War, the fortifications were further strengthened under Swedish command, but neglect of the southern front led to the city's capture in 1631 and the demolition of the fortress.