Build in the 11th century, Colditz Castle is an imposing fortress overlooking the town of Colditz, Germany. Rebuilt in the 16th century with 700 rooms, it was used as a political prison by the Nazis and during World War II it became a POW camp called Oflag IV-C. Since the fortress was considered impossible to escape from, it was a destination for Allied troublemakers and those who had attempted to escape from other prisons. However, these prisoners considered that a challenge.
The POWs at Colditz collaborated with each other on escape plans. They built trap doors, tunnels, shafts through the buildings, and even set up a telephone system to communicate warnings. Over five years, there were 300 escape attempts, 30 of which were successful. One prisoner was catapulted over the wall by his fellow inmates. Two men managed to tunnel to a guard house, where they donned German uniforms and then walked out as if they were going home from work. The most audacious escape plan was when prisoners worked together to build a glider on the roof! Read about the World War II prison at Colditz Castle and the many escape attempts at Amusing Planet.
(Image credit: Jörg Blobelt)
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