Bunkers in Basel - The Fortifications of Basel in World War Two.

During the Second World War, over 500 positions and barriers were built in the city of Basel by June 1940. Around 85 of these were concrete combat positions or bunkers. In addition, there were countless explosive devices and temporary barricades. All this turned Basel into a veritable fortress, guarded by around 12,000 men. If the city had been attacked, it would have led to massive destruction and bloody street fighting, as the order was to defend Basel ‘house by house’.

Today, 12 bunkers from the Second World War still stand in the city. They are silent, almost unnoticed witnesses to a critical period in Basel's history.

This book provides insight into the defensive efforts of that time and places the remaining structures in a broader context. They are as much a part of Basel's history as the Spalen, St. Alban and St. Johann gates. The core of the book is an inventory of all the structures built in Basel and the surrounding area during the Second World War – documented with photos and marked on accompanying contemporary plans.

Hardcover edition from 2025 (€ 39.00)

The book is AS NEW and illustrated with HUNDREDS of photos, drawings, plans as well as a large, folding map.