Spandau Citadel

The Spandau Citadel is a 16th-century Renaissance fortress located in the Spandau district of Berlin, Germany. It is notable as one of the best-preserved military fortifications of its type in Europe.

The complex features broad earthen ramparts, dry moats and four angular bastions offering panoramic views over the Havel and the old town; the ramparts are commonly used as walking routes and viewpoints. Inside the fortification there are exhibition spaces and open courtyards used for cultural events and festivals held during warmer months.

Construction of the citadel dates to the 16th century on the site of an earlier medieval fortification; it was adapted and maintained over subsequent centuries for defensive use and later repurposed for civic and cultural functions. The layout retains the characteristic star-shaped bastion plan of Renaissance military architecture.

The citadel sits on the eastern bank of the Havel in Berlin-Spandau, adjacent to Spandau Old Town. It lies roughly 20 kilometers west-northwest of central Berlin and is reachable by local public transport from the city center.

• Best vantage points: Set of moats, ramparts and four bastions provide wide views across the River Havel and Spandau Old Town, with accessible ramparts for walking and photography.
• Architectural significance: One of the better-preserved Renaissance fortress complexes in Central Europe, occupying a roughly square plan with corner bastions.