Fort Diemerdam

Fort Diemerdam is a military fortification in Diemen that forms part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam with gun positions and ammunition storage along the Diemerzeedijk. The structure preserves the strategic layout and fortified works designed to protect the city from water-based threats.

The fort was built between 1889 and 1896 to defend Amsterdam by controlling strategic waterways and routes into the city. It remained operational until 1954 when it was decommissioned and later became recognized as part of the UNESCO Defence Line heritage.

The fort reflects Dutch military engineering from the 1800s and now serves as a protected heritage site where visitors can walk through and observe the historical structures. Today it functions both as a memorial to the past and as a place where people gather to understand how the Netherlands defended itself.

The site opens on Sunday afternoons through Pavilion Puur where visitors can explore the grounds and access refreshments. The location is accessible on foot and allows for self-guided exploration of the fortified areas and surrounding terrain.

The fort uses an open coastal battery design rather than enclosed fortification structures typical of other forts in the Defence Line. This layout allowed for broader firing angles and better adaptation to the flat surrounding landscape.

Location: Diemen

Part of: Defence Line of Amsterdam, Dutch Water Defence Lines

GPS coordinates: 52.34278,5.01389

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:21