Fortress Josefov (Pevnost Josefov)
Královéhradecký kraj
Fortress Josefov is a remarkable example of 18th-century military architecture and classicist urbanism located in the Hradec Králové Region. Spanning over 289 hectares, the complex is defined by its massive octagonal, bastion-like brick walls arranged in the shape of an amphitheatre. It was originally designed to protect the northern borders of the Austrian Empire, functioning as a self-sufficient military town. The fortress is divided into three distinct sections: the main residential and public fortress, the lower Crown fortress with a fortified island, and a forward redoubt in Brdce. Visitors can explore its monumental gates and the central Empire Church, which dominates the townscape. Today, the site serves as an urban monument reservation, preserving the ingenious military building techniques of the era. In a fascinating modern twist, the historic walls now provide a dramatic backdrop for cultural events, blending centuries-old history with contemporary life.
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Tip: If you are a fan of extreme metal music, plan your visit for August when the fortress hosts the renowned Brutal Assault festival. For regular historical tours, be prepared for walking through the extensive underground corridors; comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
Zajímavosti
- •The fortress features a staggering 45-kilometer labyrinth of three-storey deep underground corridors carved into cretaceous rocks, making it unique in Europe.
- •It was designed by the French architect Claude Benoît Duhamel de Querlonde.
- •Every August, the historic walls become the stage for Brutal Assault, the biggest extreme metal music festival in Central Europe.
- •The entire fortification complex covers an impressive area of 289 hectares.
Historie
The fortress was commissioned by Emperor Joseph II and built between 1780 and 1787 to defend the empire's northern border against Prussia.
Originally named Ples, it was renamed Josefov in 1793 in honor of the Emperor.
Despite its massive scale and strategic intent, its actual military importance proved minimal, as decisive European battles were often fought elsewhere.
In 1948, the fortress town lost its independent status and was incorporated into the town of Jaroměř.
Průvodce po místě
Underground Corridors1780-1787
An extensive labyrinth of three-storey deep subterranean passages formed in cretaceous rocks. This massive defensive network was designed for moving troops and supplies safely during sieges.
Empire Church1805-1810
The dominant architectural feature of the main fortress, serving the spiritual needs of the military town's inhabitants.
Main Fortress and Town Gates1780-1787
The central residential and public area of the military complex, originally accessible through four heavily fortified gates.