Mute guards of the Czechoslovak borders

Border bunkers, just like at the Maginot Line, France

Did you know that France was the very first country to recognize the independence of Czechoslovakia in 1918? Ever since, what the Czechoslovaks called the “first republic” had super-standard relations with the land of the Gallic rooster and took much inspiration from our western ally. As the aggression of Nazi Germany began to escalate, Czechoslovakia began constructing a fortification system, which was supposed to protect the borders from an enemy attack. France’s Maginot Line fortification system was the muse for the construction of the smaller local counterpart – the Beneš Line.

After the initial consultations with French experts, Czech designers came up with a slew of construction improvements, using better-quality materials, better steel and more modern weapons. The Czechoslovak solution was simpler and yet more efficient.

In fact, you can see for yourselves at two locations in the Moravian-Silesian region! Darkovičky near Hlučín invite you to come learn about the unique fortification system. You will be told about the lives of the crews in these structures and briefly put yourselves in the shoes of those who protected our borders. Near Bohumín, you can visit the “Na Trati” infantry blockhouse, which has several unique features, including, among others, a landline telegraph or a manual lift for the transportation of ammunition. Frankly, you would be hard-pressed to find such historical artifacts at the Maginot Line.

Availability of tours in English

A printed English guide will take you through the Czechoslovak Fortification Complex in Darkovičky Na Trati bunker – text available in English, an English-speaking tour guide depends on availability.

More info HERE.

Keep an eye out on special events that take place at the fortification complex. Then you will be able to see with your own eyes the Czechoslovak army engaging with the enemy in battle!

What not to miss in the area

Lower Vítkovice Area in Ostrava

Take a glimpse into the bowels of the former steel mill, which produced armored cloches for the Czechslovak fortification infantry blockhouses!

General Laudon exposition in Nový Jičín

Try and help Marshal Laudon conquer the lost region of Silesia back for the Austrian Empire! You will find the interactive exposition in the house where the Marshal drew his last breath.

Second World War National Memorial in Hrabyně

Are you interested in what life, culture and wartime production looked like during the protectorate period? Personal belongings, protection equipment and weapons were donated to the memorial by participants in the fights from all fronts.

Sovinec castle

A mysterious castle, where Germans held French POWs during World War II and where secret SS-member initiation rituals allegedly took place.

Archeopark in Chotěbuz

Let the “archeopark” take you back to early medieval times! In the replica of the original Slavic fort, you will not only see the fortification system of that time, but also the abodes and workshops of our ancestors.