Torenburg, Medieval castle in Alkmaar, Netherlands
Torenburg is a 13th-century fortress in Alkmaar with a square layout and corner towers built from local stone. Its walls, some several feet thick, were constructed from local materials and stone foundations.
Count William II of Holland commissioned this fortress in the 13th century to control West Frisian territories. The construction of the Noordholland Canal in 1835 led to the removal of several original defensive structures from the site.
The name combines Middle Dutch words meaning tower and fortress, reflecting how local people once described their defenses. You can still see this linguistic heritage in the remaining stone foundations and walls.
Archaeological excavations have revealed substantial foundations and architectural remains that you can examine during guided tours. These discoveries provide insight into how the original structure was built and organized.
The historic Frisian Gate, a key defensive entrance, was removed during the canal construction in the 1830s and is no longer visible today. This lost structure shows how the addition of waterways transformed the appearance and layout of medieval fortifications.
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