The Ninth Fort is a stronghold in the northern part of Šilainiai elderate, Kaunas, Lithuania. It is a part of the Kaunas Fortress, built in the late 19th century. During the Soviet occupation, the fort was used as a prison and way-station for prisoners being transported to labour camps. After the occupation of Lithuania by Nazi Germany, the fort was used as a place of execution for Jews, captured Soviets, and others.
Aerial view of the Ninth Fort
Reconstructed Ninth Fort
Monument for the victims
Prison cell.
Kaunas Fortress is the remains of a fortress complex in Kaunas, Lithuania. It was constructed and renovated between 1882 and 1915 to protect the Russian Empire's western borders, and was designated a "first-class" fortress in 1887. During World War I, the complex was the largest defensive structure in the entire state, occupying 65 km2 (25 sq mi).
Fortress plan from the 19th century
An 1879 edict issued by Tsar Alexander II ordered the construction of Kaunas Fortress
The Garrison Church was constructed for the fortress garrison
One of the longest tunnels in the Ninth Fort