Fort Kijkuit, Defense fort in Wijdemeren, Netherlands.
Fort Kijkuit is a fortified defense structure in Wijdemeren with a square earthen redoubt surrounding a central bomb-proof guardhouse. The site covers two hectares and includes multiple buildings, defensive walls, and storage areas that were added at different periods.
The fort was built between 1844 and 1847 as part of the Netherlands' defensive strategy. Major changes came in 1880 when it was strengthened with earthwork reinforcements and new artillery storage areas.
The fort has transformed from a military installation into a space where people gather for events and learning activities. You can feel how the community uses it today as a place that connects past and present.
You can visit the fort from Monday through Thursday and walk around on your own to explore the buildings and grounds. Guided tours are offered on the first Sunday of each month from April to October if you want a more detailed explanation of the site.
A concrete casemate built in 1935 includes armor plating salvaged from the decommissioned warship Hr.Ms. Marten Harpertszoon Tromp. This unusual recycling of naval materials shows how military resources were repurposed on land.
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