The Berlin district of Spandau is best known for its ancient fortress on the banks of the river Hafel. The twelve-sided citadel, completely surrounded by water, is well preserved despite its age: it was built in the mid-16th century on the site of a medieval fortress. Students of history will enjoy a tour of the Spandau Citadel, which houses a history museum with interesting archaeological finds and weapons.
Not all the rooms in the citadel are used for exhibitions. Many corridors are left empty to give a sense of the building's atmosphere. The red brick walls, the long corridors, the vaulted ceilings, the semi-darkness of the corridors, the cobbled courtyard, all take the visitor back to the time when the fortress had a defensive function. You can visit each of the bastions, climb the Julius Tower, walk along the outer walls and visit the Commandant's House Museum.
The history of the Citadel has many dark moments. To find out how the Swedes trampled under its walls in vain and how Napoleon ruled here, you can get an audio guide when you buy a ticket.
The castle grounds are also a haven for creative types. On weekends and public holidays, there are a number of masterclasses in folk crafts. One of the more unusual activities, particularly popular with children, is making musical instruments and walking on stilts. There is also a puppet theatre for the little ones.
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In May, the unique Museum Children's Festival is held in the Citadel grounds — children aged 4 and over must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Admission is free and children can enjoy fairy tales, musical performances, fun competitions and creative workshops (drawing, pottery, spinning and weaving). And near the Crown Prince's Bastion there are workshops for artists, sculptors, engravers and restorers.
The citadel is the venue of choice for many famous musicians and dozens of concerts are held there every year. It is worth noting that tens of thousands of bats live in the casemates of the fortress. They are treated with great respect by the museum staff and do not disturb visitors.
