Fort van Haasdonk, Military fortification in Haasdonk, Belgium
Description
Fort van Haasdonk is a military fortification with a trapezoidal design surrounded by a wide moat in Beveren near Antwerp. The structure sits within a protected area and displays the typical features of an early 20th century defensive installation.
History
The fort was built between 1908 and 1913 as part of Belgium's broader defense strategy to protect the region. Despite its purpose, it saw no combat and remained inactive through both World Wars before being abandoned.
Culture
This fort stands as a tangible example of early 20th century Belgian military design thinking, visible in its concrete construction and geometric layout. Visitors walking around it today can sense how the nation once planned its defense strategy through such structures.
Practical
You can walk around the fort on paths that circle the moat and explore the outer grounds at your own pace. The site is also connected to a regional cycling route, making it accessible for those arriving by bike.
Did you know?
The abandoned fort now serves as a winter shelter for hundreds of bats, turning the military structure into an important refuge for several threatened species. This transformation makes it a surprising nature reserve within a historical monument.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Beveren).
Temse Bridge
5.8 km
De Ster
2.6 km
Lago Beveren De Meerminnen
4.5 km
Cortewalle Castle
5.2 km
Hof ter Saksen
3 km
De Ster
2.6 km
Fort van Steendorp
5.4 km
Kasteel Bosdam
4.7 km
Sint-Petruskerk
5.7 km
Town hall of Temse
5.4 km
Sint-Martinuskerk
5 km
Don Boscokerk
5.1 km
Hof ter Welle
4.2 km
De Witte Molen, Sint-Niklaas
5.2 km
SteM Zwijgershoek
5.8 km
Heilig Kruiskerk
5.7 km
Klooster der Wilhelmieten
5.2 km
Sint-Jacobuskerk
1.3 km
Heilige-Familiekerk
5.3 km
Molens van Temse
5.6 km
Moelandkasteel
5.6 km
Christus Koningkerk
4.8 km
Heikapel
2.4 km
Sint-Jozefskerk
2 km
Molen Van Hove
5.6 km
Vlietmolen
5.5 km
Jan-Frans Van de Velde
5.3 km
Saint Anne's Chapel
5.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes