Fort Bourtange: Uncovering a 16th Century Dutch Star Fort
At the edge of a small rural village in the Netherlands, lies a unique star-shaped fort that dates back to the 16th century. Fort Bourtange, located in the province of Groningen, is a remarkable Dutch fortification that offers a great insight into the country’s history.
From its construction in 1593 to its current status as a museum, Fort Bourtange has weathered wars and time itself to become one of the most interesting tourist attractions in the Netherlands. Read on to learn more about this star-shaped fort and discover why it’s worth a visit.
History of Fort Bourtange
Fort Bourtange was originally constructed in 1593 under the orders of William I of Orange, the leader of the Dutch rebellion against the Spanish. The fort was designed to be a star-shaped fortress, with five bastions connected by a perimeter wall, and was to be used to control the area between Germany and the Netherlands.
The fort was built to withstand sieges, and was equipped with a moat and a drawbridge, as well as strong walls, to protect it from attack. It was also home to a garrison of around 400 soldiers, and was used as a storage facility for ammunition and supplies.
In the 17th century, the fort was used as a military base during the Thirty Years War, and again during the Franco-Dutch War. It also served as a prison for French prisoners of war.
By the 18th century, the fort had become obsolete and was abandoned by the Dutch army. It was then transformed into a village, and the walls and moat were filled in, allowing the inhabitants to farm the land.
Visiting Fort Bourtange
Today, the star-shaped fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Netherlands. It’s been carefully restored to its original 16th-century condition, and visitors can explore its walls and bastions, as well as the living quarters, stores, and armory.
The star-shaped fort is also home to a museum, which houses a range of objects and artifacts from its military past, as well as a permanent exhibition about the history of the fort and its inhabitants.
Visitors can also explore the surrounding village, where many of the buildings from the 18th century have been carefully restored, including the church, inn, and windmill. The village is also home to a range of shops and cafes, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and enjoy some local cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Fort Bourtange is a must-visit attraction if you’re looking to explore the history of the Netherlands. Its star-shaped walls and bastions are a unique sight, and its museum and restored village offer a great insight into the area’s past. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Netherlands.