Fort Rapp-Moltke

Located south of the town of Reichstett, Fort Rapp-Moltke is part of Strasbourg’s ring of forts, built after the German annexation in 1871. Completed in 1874, it was designed to defend the Marne-Rhine Canal as well as Hoerdt Road, the only practical throughway between Brumath Forest and the wetlands of the northern Ried. Built in the Neo-Prussian style, this huge, partially underground fort, made of Vosges sandstone, featured about 120 rooms and various facilities. Surrounded by a dry moat and thoroughly equipped with heavy guns, the fort housed 800 soldiers. Initially dedicated to the German General Von Moltke, the fort took the name of Rapp after 1918, in tribute to General Count Jean Rapp (1771-1821) from Colmar, who had served valiantly under the Revolution and the Empire. The first isolated fort of Strasbourg, it was restored and opened to the city’s visiting public thanks to the efforts of a heritage association. The tour goes by the barracks, the blockhouse, the gunpowder magazine, the hoists, the caponiers, the infirmary, the kitchen, the bakery, and more, as well as two small museums, focusing respectively on the history of Navy troops (also known by the name “Coloniale”) and the history of the school. It’s a place full of history that these enthusiastic tour guides will be delighted to show you. In addition to tours, there are also many cultural and musical events held all year long. From April to late September, on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. Hours: see website. For groups (minimum 10 people): year-round by appointment.