Fort Sint-Andries, Military fort at rivers junction in Maasdriel, Netherlands
Fort Sint-Andries is a pentagonal-shaped defensive structure positioned between the Maas and Waal rivers, featuring five bastions named Austria, Burgau, Saxony, Aragon, and Velasco. The layout displays characteristic Dutch military engineering techniques of its era.
The fort was built in 1599 under Francisco de Mendoza during the Siege of Zaltbommel as a Spanish stronghold. It played a central role in the military conflicts of the Eighty Years' War.
The chapel inside the fort was dedicated to Saint Andrew, reflecting the religious practices of the Spanish forces who controlled the area. This dedication shaped how people understood and named the place.
The structure was rebuilt in 1812 and is located west of its original site, helping visitors understand the earlier and current positions. The location between two rivers provides natural context for how the defensive system worked.
In 1600, the garrison revolted over unpaid wages, leading to negotiations with Prince Maurice of Orange. This conflict resulted in the soldiers switching to serve the Dutch State, which redrew the political boundaries of the region.
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