Railway Fort in Toruń

Railway Fort in Toruń, also known as Fort XVI or Eisenbahnfort, is a unique military structure that forms part of the Toruń Fortress. Its construction took place between 1863 and 1866, and the fort is distinguished by its hexagonal design, making it the only such fort in the city. The facility was built to defend the railway bridge and the strategic railway line connecting Toruń with Warsaw. The range of the fort's artillery fire covered the areas of Kaszczorek, Czerniewice, and Brzoza Toruńska, highlighting its military and defensive significance. In 1912, to enhance the fort's defensive capabilities, three additional concrete positions were constructed. After World War I, between 1920 and 1925, the Railway Fort was taken over by the Vistula Fleet and later handed over to the 63rd Toruń Infantry Regiment. It is worth noting that after 1920, the fort's equipment was seized by German troops, reflecting the changing fortunes of the site over time. The Railway Fort is not only a key element of the fortress but also a valuable piece of Toruń's military history, blending architectural and military aspects with the region's rich cultural heritage.