Kattendijkdok, Protected dock in Port of Antwerp, Belgium.
Kattendijkdok is a protected dock facility in the Port of Antwerp measuring 957 meters long and 140 meters wide. The basin reaches a water depth of about 7.6 meters and is lined with ten dry docks along the western quay used for maintaining various vessels.
Construction began between 1858 and 1859 under architect Bourla's direction, with expansions continuing until 1881. The extensions incorporated land from the former Spanish fortress.
The name comes from Kattendijk, referring to a raised area along the Scheldt where 'kat' once meant an elevated defensive position. The name choice reflects the strategic importance this location held for the city's past.
The site is easily accessible through Antwerp's harbor infrastructure with viewing points along the quay. Keep in mind this is an active port area, so access to certain sections may be restricted at times.
The eastern basin connected to the Kempische Vaart through a lock that housed a hydraulic crane mechanism until 1935. This engineering setup was remarkably advanced for its time.
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