The building was erected in 1831 to store black powder. It was intended for use in times of war and therefore stands on the side of the town not directly exposed to attack. To protect it from bullets, it was encased in cavities and covered with earth in 1865. This "buffer" also protected the fortress crew from a possible explosion of the powder reserves. From 1992 to 2009, it served as a shooting range for a shooting club.