Ski Jump Fortifications

To protect the aircraft repair facilities, in the neighboring vineyards are the remains of two large earthen fortifications called "Ski Jumps" that date back to 1866. These structures are on high ground and have dry moats, earthen berms and trenches.
During the 2nd World War, the front lines were in the wine region and heavy fighting took place between German and Russian troops along the Ski Jumps.
During this period, these locations housed German anti-aircraft guns. From these positions high atop the nearby hilltops, guns and artillery protected Vienna and the aircraft repair facilities. The Germans used these positions to fend off the approaching Soviet army and also to deter allied bombers flying over. Today, these earthen sites are characterized by numerous craters created by Allied bombs.

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Source

• Text: Raymond White
• Photos: Raymond White
• Whitehousetravel.com