The arms factory Dynamit Aktien Gesellschaft in Krzystkowice (Christianstadt). A history to be written again

Wojciech Eckert

Abstract

In the Lubusz Voivodship there are a large number of historical fortifications and buildings related to the arms industry. These objects, built in the first half of the 20th century as concrete structures, have lost their original function and character. They are disused and their condition is slowly deteriorating. One of them is the so-called „Dynamite Factory”, a group of about 300 buildings scattered over a forest area of 35 km², near Nowogród Bobrzański, about 20 km south of Zielona Góra. Some of them were blown up after World War II. However, many of them have been preserved in good condition to this day.
No serious, comprehensive studies regarding the „Dynamite Factory” in Krzystkowice have been conducted so far in terms of history, architecture or urban planning. There are not any ideas about the possibility and method of adapting the factory relics for modern purposes.
The article attempts to describe this huge factory complex. It also emphasizes that this building complex is unique not only in the voivodship but also in the whole region. A comprehensive programme for adaption, modernization and new, rational management of the factory relics should be prepared.
This kind of programme can involve both national and European, scientific units, architectural and urban studios, universities, local government units and many others. The Dynamit Aktien Gesellschaft arms factory in Krzystkowice (Christianstadt) is waiting for re-use, this time for peaceful purposes.