Fort van Oelegem

The fort features a trapezoidal structure surrounded by a moat measuring between 40 and 50 meters in width, covering approximately 20 hectares of land.

Construction started in February 1909 as part of the Defense Line of Antwerp, designed to protect the city until allied reinforcements could arrive during military conflicts.

The fort stands as an example of Belgian military architecture, demonstrating the defensive strategies and construction techniques employed during the early twentieth century.

Visitors can explore the fortress through guided tours, with an annual open house event occurring on the last Sunday of April each year.

The fortress now functions as a winter reserve for over 1,200 bats of various species, establishing it as a primary wildlife conservation site in Belgium.

Location: Ranst

Part of: national redoubt of Belgium

GPS coordinates: 51.22472,4.61417

Latest update: May 27, 2025 17:43