The Zwischenwerk (intermediate fort) VIIIb is one of the remains of a massive belt of fortifications around Cologne, established in the years 1873-76, to guard against a French invasion. Twelve large forts were constructed, with some additional flanking or intermediate forts. Most of these had to be dismantled after the First World War, according to the stipulations of the Versailles Treaty. Today, a museum preserves this military memory. The fortress belt around the city is not completely visible but needs to be discovered. The specific fortresses were made of red bricks and then covered in earth or concrete.
All of them have similar designs. Interestingly, the Zwischenwerk resembles the forts constructed in Posen (Poznan) and Thorn (Torun) in today’s Poland. Apparently, Prussian military engineers felt a standard design had many advantages and both the prospective French and Russian enemy would not be able to penetrate these defensive lines. A deep dry moat protected the main body of the fortress.
In addition, an iron fence held off potential attackers. A 15 cm gun was the main weapon, with three additional smaller cannon installed. Plenty of ammunition was stored inside the area, shielded by heavy brick walls and small bunkers.
About 150 soldiers occupied the fort. No shot was ever fired in anger here since France never invaded and the battlefields of the “Great War” were far away in Flanders. Germany lost, the newly-established Weimar Republic had to downsize its military and demolish fortresses. The Rhineland became a demilitarized zone, enforce by Allied occupation. After the required dismantling of defensive installations, the area became a green belt and a public park. Unfortunately, it has also been heavily tagged and littered, making it unsightly and seemingly neglected.
The local fortress aficionados are currently collecting money to pay for the upkeep. CRIFA – the Cologne Research Institute for Fortress Architecture works on an international basis to preserve the history of military installations. However, Prussian heritage protection is not the most popular item on the agenda of today’s political elite in Germany, and in the anti-Prussian Rhineland in particular. This is visible – the area is completely open to the public and unguarded. Young Germans obviously have little regard or respect for their heritage. As a consequence, the walls are covered in tags and the whole space is full of trash. A sorry state for a proud city. If you are lucky to catch a rare open day or visit on the international “Day of Forts”, you might be able to see the barrack rooms and the kitchen inside.
The goal of Zwischenwerk VIIIb was to protect the nearby Rhine river, which is indeed within walking distance from the fortress. Nowadays, a popular main road transports cars and trucks to the Autobahn. Most drivers will be oblivious of the military installation on the side of the road.
Now, a look inside! Once a year, the “day of the forts” celebrates the remains of fortifications across Europe. Organized tours allow a glimpse behind the walls.