Authenticity, Paradox and Reflection. 
Aspects of the Theorisation of Ruins by the Use of the Example of the Moselle Position (2025)

This paper examines the intersection of fortification architecture and ruin theory through the lenses of authenticity, paradox, and reflection. Fortification ruins, as remnants of military architecture, embody a transformation over time, resulting from abandonment and decay. The Moselle Position, a series of fortifications built by the German Empire, serves as a case study, illustrating how these structures have transitioned from functional military installations to modern ruins. The concept of authenticity is explored not as a claim to originality but as a reflection of individual encounters with ruins, highlighting the emotional connections that arise during exploration. The paradox of restored versus open ruins is discussed, emphasising the tension between the spectacle of restoration and the authentic experience of decay. Finally, reflection is positioned as a critical tool for understanding the historical significance of ruins, linking them to broader narratives and historic contexts. Through this analysis, the paper contributes to a nuanced understanding of ruins as complex entities that provoke both aesthetic appreciation and critical inquiry.