Boldly developed under Prussian rule, Poznań’s energy and ambitions were redirected here in the 19th century. With wide streets and monumental buildings, it remains the vibrant, modern center of the city’s cultural life today.
After assuming power following the Second Partition of Poland in 1792, Prussian authorities aimed to strengthen ties with Berlin, fortify the city against potential attack from Russia (Poznań was now on the border), and redevelop the area west of the Old Town into a model German city, with numerous parks, monumental municipal buildings and a military presence. A massive stronghold was built north of the Old Town (today Citadel Park), and a ring of modern fortifications was built around the new City Centre. The newly demarcated area inside became the site of ongoing cultural competition between Poles and Germans and is home to some of Poznań’s most characteristic buildings today.
