User:M.K/Laikinas

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Fortress plan of the 19th century

Kaunas Fortress is the remains of fortress in Kaunas, Lithuania. Originally built as Russian Empire first class fortress, which gradual construction lasted from 1882-1915. During its height times fortress was the biggest defensive structure in whole state. ^[1] Today some parts of fortress are renovated and holds museum.

1 Background
2 Construction of Fortress
3 German offensive
- 3.1 The fall of Fortress
4 Fortress during later years

[edit] Background

Due to its convenient location, near two rivers, hilltops and major trade routs, Kaunas city remain strategic location during various wars. Through the city history, its defenses were built by Lithuanians, Germans, Swedes, Russians, as proof of key contesting strategic position. The idea of building fortress was discussed in the end of 18th century, but the prime concern it became after invasion lead by Napoleon, when the Grande Armée without major difficulties managed to cross the Neman river near Kaunas and push towards Moscow. On 1861 in Kaunas was opened railroad branch-line of St. Petersburg – Warsaw line, increasing importance of city. ^[2] Railroads played key role during military campaigns, as it was the primary transportation mean of military equipment and supplies, moreover Lithuania with Kaunas was the western border region of Empire. For this reason Kaunas was an obstacle for possible attack from west, preventing further push towards Riga and Vilnius, therefore in order to control the region, attackers had to neutralize city first. Facing such possibility and evaluating natural advantages of the city, officials planed to strengthen western border by building fortress in the city. On 7 July 1879 was issued an edict by Emperor Alexander II , ordering to begin construction of fortress in the city. ^[3]