Beneath Trieste: The Hidden World War II Complex of Kleines Berlin

Kleines Berlin, an underground air-raid shelter hidden beneath Trieste, Italy, was built by the German occupying forces during World War II. Named 'Kleines Berlin' as an ironic analogy to its German construction, it resembles somewhat the defensive scale of Berlin's defenses, yet it stands out from local Italian bunkers. The construction of the shelter was not a top priority, as an existing ‘municipal’ tunnel was already equipped with an electric system made up of bare copper wires.

The complex is divided into two sectors: one Italian and one German. The German sector, built for exclusive occupation by SS troops, consists of large rooms perpendicular to a long main tunnel and covers an area of 1,000 square meters. Meanwhile, the Italian sector has parallel tunnels with benches, a first aid room, and restroom facilities.

During bombings on Trieste during the war, both German military personnel and Italian civilians found shelter in Kleines Berlin. Medical care was provided in first aid rooms within the complex for injuries sustained during bombings or haste. No records of a Yugoslav attempt to penetrate the Court corridor have been found. No significant casualties were reported during events involving the complex.

Today, Kleines Berlin serves as a fascinating reminder of the city's hidden wartime past.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons