It was built in between1843 and 1855 to block the strategic isthmus between Lakes Niegocin and Kisajno. One of its instigators was General von Boyen, hence the name of this fortress. From the viewpoint of the Prussian strategy the defensive line of the Great Mazurian Lakes played an important role. Before the outbreak of World War I the natural elements of the terrain and the strengthened fortifications around the Boyen Fortress were meant to block the advancing Russian army from entering the area. The fortress could hold around 3000 soldiers. After World War I the function of the fortress was changed, turning part of it into a hospital. Before the start of World War II it was one of the rallying points for the German army which eventually invaded Poland from Eastern Prussia. During the war “Abwehr” established its headquarters here. Since 1945 the Boyen Fortress was passed into the hands of the Polish Army which only used it in a limited way. For nearly 20 years it has been a popular tourist attraction and cultural events are also organised here which include the cult festival “Shanties in Gizycko”, the Summer Cabaret Tournament and the International Motorcycle Rally. Boyen Fortress – Gizycko (woj. Warminsko-Mazurskie) www.boyen.gizycko.pl