Museum of Fortifications and Bats in Pniewo
Lubuskie
The Museum of Fortifications and Bats in Pniewo is dedicated to the Międzyrzecki Rejon Umocniony (MRU), an extensive system of German fortifications built between 1934 and 1944 to protect the eastern border of the Reich. Located in Lubuskie Voivodeship near Międzyrzecz, the MRU is one of the largest underground fortification complexes worldwide, featuring approximately 32–35 km of underground corridors. The central section, where the museum is situated, is the most heavily fortified, with interconnected bunkers linked by underground tunnels. The site also serves as a significant bat reserve, housing over 30,000 bats from 12 species during winter months. Visitors can explore various routes including short, long, extreme, and surface trails that showcase the military architecture and natural environment. The fortifications include heavy bunkers with thick concrete ceilings and armored turrets, originally equipped with machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, flamethrowers, anti-tank weapons, and artillery. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into World War II military engineering and wildlife conservation within the underground spaces.
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Astuce: The best time to visit is during the summer months when the museum operates from 8:00 to 17:00. Winter hours are shorter, from 9:00 to 15:00. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the museum ahead for any closures, especially around holidays. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance for popular routes and guided tours. The museum offers several trail options, including short, long, extreme, and surface routes, catering to different levels of physical activity and interest. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Comfortable footwear and warm clothing are recommended due to the underground environment and varying temperatures.
Faits intéressants
- •The MRU underground tunnels span approximately 32–35 kilometers, making it one of the largest underground fortification systems globally.
- •Over 30,000 bats from 12 species hibernate in the central underground section during winter, making it a vital bat reserve.
- •The fortifications were designed with extremely thick concrete ceilings up to 3.5 meters and armored turrets with armor thickness up to 600 millimeters.
- •The MRU included advanced hydrotechnical constructions such as dams, sluices, and drawbridges to enhance defense by controlling water obstacles.
- •The underground corridors, called the Main Movement Road, connected multiple bunker groups, allowing rapid troop movement underground.
Histoire
The Międzyrzecki Rejon Umocniony was constructed by Germany from 1934 to 1944, despite restrictions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles.
Initial preparations began secretly in 1927, with the first light fortifications built in 1934–1935.
The central section was heavily fortified with plans for 107 heavy combat bunkers connected by underground tunnels, intended to form one of the most powerful and modern fortified lines in the world.
Hydrotechnical works, such as dams and drawbridges, were also constructed to enhance defensive capabilities.
Although the full plan was never completed, the MRU remains an impressive example of military engineering.
Since 1974, the underground tunnels have served as a winter refuge for bats, discovered by biology students from Adam Mickiewicz University, leading to ongoing conservation efforts.
Guide du lieu
Central Underground Tunnels1934-1944
This network of tunnels connects the heavy bunkers in the central section of the MRU. Visitors can explore these extensive corridors that once allowed troops and supplies to move safely underground.
Heavy Combat Bunkers (Panzerwerke)1934-1944
Massive fortified bunkers with reinforced concrete and armored turrets designed to withstand heavy artillery fire. Equipped historically with machine guns, grenade launchers, flamethrowers, anti-tank weapons, and artillery.
Bat Wintering ReserveDiscovered 1974
The underground tunnels serve as a protected winter habitat for over 30,000 bats from 12 species, discovered in 1974. The museum promotes both historical and ecological education.
Hydrotechnical Constructions1934-1939
Dams, sluices, and drawbridges were built to control water obstacles, enhancing the defensive capabilities of the MRU by flooding certain areas or creating barriers.
Contact
Téléphone: 95 741 99 99