Torgau's war and military history

Torgau Fortress, built under Napoleon and later under Prussian rule, is still the only major Saxon fortress to have survived in parts despite being razed. This impressive complex bears witness to the strategic importance of the town in past centuries.

As early as the 19th century, some of the fortress buildings were converted into detention centres. In the 20th century, Torgau played a central role in the Wehrmacht penal system of National Socialism. From 1943, the town was the seat of the Reich Court Martial, which further deepened the dark chapters of German history at this location.

A world-famous event marked the end of the Second World War: in April 1945, American and Soviet soldiers met on the Elbe near Torgau. This historic meeting symbolised the imminent end of the war and remains a key moment in the town's history.

After 1945, the Soviet Union used the town for its special camps before the GDR authorities took over the facilities. Of particular note is the GDR's only closed youth work centre, which was set up in Torgau.

Today, various exhibitions, monuments and memorials provide information about the town's eventful war and military history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the past and learn more about the formative events and their impact on Torgau.