Fortress Stretch
Mediaeval fortresses with their rich history, green city walls and convivial atmosphere. Around Amsterdam it teems with enchanting fortified towns. Take a walk over old town ramparts or a peek into the life of Count Floris V, who had the castle ‘Muiderslot’ built. Get swept off into the Middle Ages!
Muiden
The fortified town of Muiden lies on the IJmeer lake. It is neatly laid out, peaceful, green and has a picturesque harbour with small cafés and restaurants. Muiden forms part of the world heritage site De Stelling van Amsterdam (‘Defence Line of Amsterdam’), a 135-kilometre-long fortification around Amsterdam. Sneak through the casemates of the Muizenfort – a lovely starting point for a historic walk round the town.
A square castle with a drawbridge, five towers, battlements and embrasures: the Muiderslot is a true mediaeval water stronghold on the River Vecht. Not forgetting the fact that it is the most exciting and most famous knight’s castle in the Netherlands with special guided tours for kids. Another way to explore this area is Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot tour. If you want to give yourself a treat, take the ferry from the Muiderslot to fortress island Pampus. Wander through the corridors with a map, feel the wind in your hair and enjoy the view of Amsterdam and the boats on the IJmeer.
Naarden
Naarden was once a modern military defence post and it is still one of the best preserved fortified towns in Europe. One thing that is unique is the star formation with six bastions, the double rampart and the double ring of canals. Curious as to how the fortress was used in the 17th century? Visit the Netherlands Fortress Museum.
Also an absolute must to see in this fortified town are, the Town Hall from 1601 with imposing crow-stepped gable, The Spanish House (Het Spaanse Huis), one of the last remaining mediaeval buildings.
The Arsenal (het Arsenaal), originally a weapons repository from 1688 and now the home base for one of the most well-known Dutch interior designers and a top restaurant. Combine history with modern design and a nice glass of wine.
Weesp
A grand town hall, windmills,forts and the River Vecht adorn the fortified town of Weesp. Visit the 17th-century fort Ossenmarkt or the round fort Uitermeer on the water. In Weesp there are various windmills, including Molen ’t Haantje, a unique tower mill.
Tourist Information
VVV agency Bezoekerscentrum Naarden
Kapitein Meijerweg 1, Naarden
tel: (31) (0)35-6292810
www.gooivecht.nl
VVV Weesp
Hoogstraat 10
tel: (+31) (0)294-415427
www.toerismeweesp.info
History comes back to life in these charming fortified towns with solid forts and strongholds. Discover them for yourself.
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