Step into the heart of the Artilleriewerk Magletsch, a hidden world carved into the mountainside of Liechtenstein. This impressive fortress, a relic of the Second World War, is a testament to the strategic importance of this little corner of Europe. Imagine the hushed whispers of soldiers patrolling the tunnels and the deafening roar of cannons during wartime.
The Artilleriewerk Magletsch was built in the 1940s, a crucial piece of the Swiss defensive system. It formed the northernmost bastion of the Fortress Sargans, a vast network of tunnels, bunkers, and fortifications. This mighty fortress commanded the Rhein Valley, providing an impenetrable shield for Switzerland. For the brave men who manned the cannons, the Magletsch was a vital defense against the encroaching dangers of the war.
The Artilleriewerk Magletsch was not just a military stronghold; it was a self-contained city beneath the earth. It housed 381 soldiers, boasting a bakery, a laundry, and even a hospital with 70 beds. Three powerful diesel engines provided the fortress with electricity, and its vast water reserves ensured that the soldiers could hold out for months.
As you walk through the tunnels, you may spot the remnants of a sandstein-relief, a tribute to the 650 years of the Swiss confederation. This piece of art, created during World War II, reminds us of the past and the enduring spirit of the Swiss people. Even today, the Artilleriewerk Magletsch serves as a reminder of the past and the importance of preserving peace.