Bourtange, Star-shaped fortress in Westerwolde, Netherlands.
Description
Bourtange is a fortified village in the Dutch province of Groningen shaped like a five-pointed star, with ramparts, moats, and bastions surrounding it. The central settlement is completely enclosed by these defenses, with restored buildings from its military period positioned between the fortifications.
History
The fortress was built in 1593 during the Dutch resistance against Spanish rule to control the only passage through surrounding wetlands. After nearly 3 centuries of military service, it was abandoned in 1851 and later developed into a residential village.
Culture
The village keeps alive traditional craftsmanship and military demonstrations that visitors can watch in restored buildings around the settlement. Daily life here reflects its history as a military stronghold.
Practical
Visitors can walk along the ramparts, explore a local museum, and learn about the fortress structures through displays and signs. The best time to visit is from spring through fall when activities are offered and weather permits comfortable walking.
Did you know?
From above, the perfectly symmetrical five-pointed star shape is striking because each point was designed to defend a different strategic direction. This geometric layout represented an innovative fortress concept that remains clearly visible from the air today.
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Photo license: CC BY-SA 3.0
Bourtange Fortress
80 m
Synagoge
24 m
Kerk van Bourtange
73 m
Vestingmolen Bourtange
99 m
Bourtangersluis
2.3 km
Wollinghuizersluis
2.8 km
Jipsinghuizersluis
4.3 kmBourtange Fortress Museum
273 m
De Staakenborgh
2 km
Marktplein 7, Bourtange
26 m
Marktplein
1 m
Plaquette voor Ella en Mozes Braaf
460 m
Marktplein 5, Bourtange
24 m
Redoute Bakoven
901 m
Baracquen Batterijenstraat
66 m
Vestinggracht
177 m
Marktplein 13, Bourtange
30 m
Kapiteinslogement
32 m
Majoorslogement
29 m
De Linie, voorwerk vesting
1.5 km
Joods Monument
37 mDe Soldaat
263 mCannon
138 mCannon
135 mCannon
134 mCannon
130 mCannon
100 mCannon
119 m
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