Bastion III "Kleparz"
Fortress Kraków
A standard redoubt fort from 1856-1859 at Kamienna Street 2/4, the only fort of this type preserved in almost its original state. It lies on the northern stretch of the defences, which is why it was one of the most powerful forts of the fortress core. An outer earth bank shields the moat, protected by two double caponiers of the "cat ears" type, and inside the rampart stands a horseshoe-shaped, two-storey brick redoubt. The fort had a double role: it protected the main defensive line of the whole fortress and at the same time acted as an autonomous unit.
History
Bastion III "Kleparz" is one of two masonry bastions with which the northern part of the core of the Kraków Fortress was strengthened in 1854-1866. The core then took the form of a high rampart with a wide moat, and at its angles structures known as bastions were built, although in terms of construction they were redoubt forts. They were numbered clockwise, starting from the Vistula. On the northern and north-eastern approaches two were built of masonry: III at Kleparz and its twin, V "Lubicz".
Kleparz itself was built in 1856-1859. It lies on the critical northern section of the defences, so it was among the most powerful forts of the core. An outer earth embankment protected the moat, which in turn is defended by two double caponiers of the "cat's ears" type. Inside the rampart stands a horseshoe-shaped, two-storey brick redoubt, covered with earth on top, and guns were placed on the rampart. Behind the redoubt runs a long gorge ending in an extensive rear caponier, located already inside the line of defence; it protected the fort in case the enemy broke into the fortress perimeter. The main gate was guarded by two bastilles. This layout resulted from incorporating the fort into the line of the rampart: the bastion defended the main line of defence and at the same time could operate independently.
In the 1860s the fort was almost impregnable, but rapid technological progress meant that by the 1880s it was considered obsolete. Traverses with shelters were added in 1884, and barracks in 1909. The bastion saw no fighting; during the Second World War the Germans held Soviet prisoners of war here. After the war it survived despite demolition plans, saved by the efforts of Karol Estreicher and Janusz Bogdanowski. From 1954 its surroundings were built up and the moats altered.
Today it is the only fort of this type preserved in an almost original state. It has decorative window and door surrounds and stone portals, and it is surrounded by Kleparski Park.
Did you know?
The Kleparz bastion still has its wooden gates with loopholes built into the doors and gateways, and its façade is decorated with gargoyles. The fort has survived together with part of its original fittings.