Saeftingher Slot, Medieval castle ruins in Saeftinghe, Netherlands
Saeftingher Slot is a castle ruin located near Hulst in a landscape shaped by storm tides and river currents. Only scattered stone remains of the original structure are visible in the area today.
The castle was built in 1279 by Countess Margaretha II of Flanders as a strategic stronghold along the river Honte. It stood at the intersection of three territories and later succumbed to the advancing water and changing landscape.
The castle's location in a landscape constantly shaped by water reflects how the Dutch understood their relationship with nature and defense. This setting influenced local thinking about protection and survival in a changing environment.
The site is difficult to access today as it sits in a water-dominated landscape with minimal marking or infrastructure. Visitors should gather local information beforehand and account for wet ground and changing water conditions.
The original structure featured a square keep and two round towers, with water controlled through wooden sluices in its defenses. This blend of stone fortification and water engineering was unusual for its era.
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