The Dutch Pentagon
©
Paul Paris, Amstelveen
© Photograph Peter Schat/ Mega
2 soldiers at gun-turret of Spijkerboor Fortress of Fortress Ring of Amsterdam
Photo
gallery
Website with more information about
the Fortress Ring of Amsterdam |
National defence
As early as in the 16th century the Dutch used water to help
them defend their territory. Inundation became a weapon in
the struggle for independence against the Spaniards.
Star-shaped ramparts were built round the cities for the defence.
These fortifications with bastions can still be visited in
the Netherlands.
The New Holland Waterline with a length of nearly 100 kilometres,
constructed in the 19th century as a line of defence against
enemies from the east, is nominated for the World Heritage
list. A number of the fortresses can still be visited. Also
the capital got its own line of defence: The Fortress Ring
of Amsterdam.
Nowadays the scenic, ecological, cultural-historical and recreational
values of these strategic landscapes are increasingly acknowledged,
as is noticeable during a visit to these defences.
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Fortress of the Fortress Ring of Amsterdam
© illustration Lex Tempelman
Fortress Ring of Amsterdam, Fortresses and inundated areas around the capital of the Netherlands
© illustration Lex Tempelman
Hostile attack on fortesses of the New Holland Waterline, ranges of fire and inundated fields
© illustration Lex Tempelman |
