Underrated Tourist Spots – Bourtange, Netherlands

Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands
Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands

Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands | Fort Bourtange is a star shaped military fort near Groningen, Netherlands. It was built in 1593 under the orders of William the Silent, leader of the Netherlands. Its purpose was to control the only road between Germany and the city of Groningen, which was unfortunately patrolled by the Spaniards at that time. During the 80-Years-War from 1568 to 1648, the Spaniards had full control over Groningen and the road leading from there to Germany. William the Silent wanted to break off trade between Spanish occupied Groningen and Germany. He decided that it would be optimal to build a fortification on the Bourtange passage, which was the main road leading to Germany.

Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands
Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands.

The star shaped fort was completed in 1593 with a network of canals and lakes used as moats. The fort then housed five garrisons. Soon after its construction, Spanish forces from Groningen battled it. Their attack failed.

Fort Bourtange faced another battle in 1672 against military forces of Prince-Bishop of Münster. This guy really demanded the Fort to surrender! The fort’s governor, Captain Protts, refused. The Münsters replied with a frontal assault. But again the invading army was repelled successfully.

Bourtange was converted into a village in 1851. 110 years later the local government decided to combat the growing problem of decline. Fort Bourtange would be restored and made into a museum.

Underrated Tourist Spots - Bourtange, Netherlands
Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands.

How to get there? A car ride from Amsterdam to Bourtange is about 2.45 hours. Nearst bigger city: Groningen – not really a tourist hot spot. Long story short: You will have to show some dedication to make it to Bourtange.

Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands
Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands.
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Underrated Tourist Spots Bourtange Netherlands. By Chili and Churp | © International Destinations | more Underrated Tourist Spots here.