Landsberg am Lech Fortifications by EuroTourData

History of Landsberg am Lech Fortifications

From the beginning of the 14th century, Landsberg enjoyed rich trading privileges as a frontier town, which led to rapid population growth. The new urban settlers sought safety within the city walls, which were also the legal boundary. For reasons of fiscal policy, the dukes supported the expansion of Landsberg into a trading metropolis and frontier stronghold with benefits and monetary donations. All this created an impetus for the expansion of the 15th century. Threats from the Swabian League led to the need to modernize Landsberg's fortifications towards the end of the 15th century.

The Thirty Years' War brought new dangers to the city, and in 1631, Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria ordered the strengthening of the fortifications. Nevertheless, the Swedes were able to take Landsberg without a fight in 1632. The city changed hands several times. Both sides continued the fortification work to turn Landsberg into a military base.

Between 1703 and 1704 the War of the Spanish Succession required another expansion, which was be continued during the War of the Austrian Succession.

After World War Two, extensive restoration work of the fortifications began in 1964 and continues today.

Info is based on the article Stadtbefestigung Landsberg am Lech of German Wikipedia.