The federal fortress of Ulm and its history

Although it was published about 25 years ago, this book is one of the very best books published on fortifications in general so far. It offers the reader the perfect amount of written information, combined with GOOD photos, plans and maps.

The book describes the history of the -mostly 19th century - fortifications of the German town of Ulm.  It starts out on describing the history of the town, including its town defences, from as early as the 8th and 9th century. The town expanded as did its fortifications - until it was decided in the 19th century that Ulm should become one of the "Bundesfestungen" (Federal fortresses) of the Deutsche Bund (Federal Union) - together with Landau, Luxemburg, Mainz, Rastatt and Germersheim (although the latter was, in fact, a double bridgehead, "doppelter Brückenkopf"). Freiherr Moritz Karl Ernst von Prittwitz und Gaffron was responsible for the design and construction of the fortifications on the left bank of the river Donau.

After a description of the fortifications of Ulm in general, the author goes on describing each and every individual "Work" of the fortress of Ulm in great detail. These descriptions are mostly accompanied by photos (in colour!) and contemporary plans and maps.

Altogether, this book is a MAGNIFICENT book for anyone with an interest in fortifications in general, but on 19th century German fortifications in particular. The book is written in German and is illustrated with HUNDREDS of photos, plans, drawings and maps - mostly in colour. The book is in GOOD shape and quite RARE.