Ruotsinsalmi Sea Fortress, Kotka, Finland

Ruotsinsalmi fortress was built by Russians in 1790-1796. It was part of the South-Eastern Finland fortification system which was planned to defence St. Petersburg. The sea fortress was located to islands in front of the city of Kotka and Kyminlinna fortress. It contained three main strongholds (Fort Katarina, Fort Elisabeth and Fort Slava) and several redoubts and artillery batteries.

Ruotsinsalmi fortress lost its original defensive value only couple of years later, when rest areas of Finland were joined to Russia after the Finnish War (1808-1809). It was disbanded in the 1830's and during the Crimean war (1855) Anglo-French fleet destroyed the empty fortress permanently.

Today individual remnants of fortresses can still be found for instance beside Catherine’s path and on the island of Tiutinen. Also Fort Elisabeth's embankments have been renovated in recent years. The island is easily accessible by regular boat services in the summer.

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.

Елена Сова (4 years ago)

Konstantin Shihov (6 years ago)

Aisa Cayat (6 years ago)
Very nice park. Relaxing.. Q

Степан Лукашенко (6 years ago)
The fort has been restored, but nevertheless the place is very beautiful, near the park, it’s definitely worth a walk!

Jarkko Juhani Törmänen (7 years ago)

Ruotsinsalmi Sea Fortress

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