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The Daugavpils, also known as Dinaburg Fortress, stands as the sole preserved early 19th-century military fortification in Northern Europe that remains largely unaltered. This significant fortress was initially constructed in anticipation of Napoleon’s invasion, with work commencing in the early 19th century. Despite being unfinished, the fortress successfully withstood the first attacks from Napoleon’s army in 1812. Spanning an extensive area of over 150 hectares, the fortified territory is a testament to military engineering of the era.
The fortress's construction was fully completed in 1878, by which time it was already considered obsolete. It holds the distinction of being the last bastion-style fortress built in Europe, marking the end of an era in military architecture.
From 1947 to 1993, the entire fortress citadel was under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence of the USSR. During this period, it housed the Military School of Aviation Engineers, playing a crucial role in the Soviet military infrastructure.
Today, the Daugavpils Fortress is home to the Mark Rothko Art Centre. Mark Rothko, born in Daugavpils, was profoundly influenced by his birthplace, which is reflected in his work. Rothko is celebrated as one of the foremost artists of Abstract Expressionism, with his painting “No. 6 (Violet, Green, and Red)” ranking as the 7th most expensive artwork ever sold. The Mark Rothko Art Centre is the only place in Eastern Europe where visitors can view original works by this iconic artist.
A tour of the Daugavpils Fortress may be brief, but it offers a rich immersion into military and Russian Empire history, complemented by significant art exhibits. The fortress honours various historical figures who have lived or worked there, adding depth to its historical narrative. The Daugavpils Fortress is an extraordinary place, characterised by its unique atmosphere and profound historical significance.
