Defence Line of Amsterdam-Fort bij Nigtevecht

The UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Defence Line of Amsterdam (in Dutch named Stelling van Amsterdam) is a 135 km long ring of fortifications around Amsterdam, consisting of 42 forts located between 10 to 15 kilometers the centre, and lowlands that can easily be flooded in time of war. The flooding was designed to give a depth of about 30 cm, insufficient for boats to traverse. Any buildings within 1 km of the line had to be made of wood, so that they could be burnt and the obstruction removed.

The Stelling van Amsterdam was constructed between 1880 and 1920. The invention of the aeroplane and tank made the forts obsolete almost as soon as they were finished. Many of the forts now are under the control of the town councils and the nature department, and may be visited. Monuments Day, on the second Saturday in September, is the ideal day to visit as entrance is free.

The Fort near Nigtevecht was completed in 1903. Recently, a large part of this stronghold was made waterproof and restored by Stichting Herstelling, a Dutch foundation that offers work experience to the jobless. Various interior elements have been retained. The retractable turrets have also remained intact. There’s not that much vegetation, but it’s of a varied nature. Standing on top of the fortress you’ll get a good view of the busy boat traffic on the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal.

Fort Nigtevecht is only open during Open Monuments Day. Excursions can be made by appointment.

Fort Nigtevecht's purpose was to defend the accesses formed by the Merwedekanaal (now Amsterdam-Rhine Canal) and the river Vecht. It also protected the sluices between these waters as well as the so-called ‘Prise d'eau’ (water supply point) of the Vecht water supply system south of the fortress. A second battery is located in the defence line wall near the fort. You can also see three mounds here, which are the remnants of anti-aircraft artillery positions that were installed in 1927.

More information is available here.