Fortress Magdeburg-Kavalier I

The origins of Magdeburg's fortifications date back to the 13th century. With the advent of firearms, modernizations were carried out between 1450 and 1550, including the construction of a second city wall and the fortification of the Elbe front. These facilities proved effective during sieges in 1550/51 and 1629. During the Thirty Years' War, the fortifications were expanded under Swedish leadership, but neglect of the southern front led to the city's capture in 1631 and the demolition of the structures. Under Brandenburg-Prussian rule, reconstruction and expansion began in 1666, extending in several phases until the early 18th century and including a belt of bastions and a citadel.