Harzkanonen
Harzkanonen is a designation used in German-language sources to refer to heavy artillery associated with the fortifications and defenses of the Harz region in central Germany. The term does not point to a single gun model; rather, it covers several batteries and emplacement sites that were installed and used at different times, from the late 19th century through the Second World War.
Historical context and purpose
The Harz fortification system developed to control important routes through the Harz mountains and to protect
Harzkanonen sites typically consisted of large-caliber fortress guns deployed in fixed emplacements, such as casemates or
Documentation about Harzkanonen is scattered in military heritage records and local archives. After 1945, many installations
Harzkanonen serves as a regional label for heavy fortress artillery connected with Harz fortifications, rather than