Discover the special places
There are lots of special places to discover in the Dutch Water Defence Lines. In the visitor centres, the stories of the water lines come to life. The two castles and six fortresses are brimming with history and each fortress has its own unique features.
Discover
Where soldiers were once stationed, you can now enjoy many new uses in the Dutch Water Defence Lines. In various forts, you can now enjoy food and drink, sleep or learn all about the Netherlands' (military) past. Imagine yourself back in the Middle Ages during a visit to one of the two castles that dot the World Heritage Site the Dutch Water Defence Lines. Or visit one of the pleasant fortified towns: explore old streets where time has stood still and search for traces of the water lines.
UNESCO Visitor Centres
Scattered through the Dutch Water Defence Lines you will find a number of locations that tell the story of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here it is explained in detail how the Dutch used water as a weapon, why forts were built on them and why the emptiness in the landscape of the water lines is anything but accidental.
View all UNESCO visitor centres
Castles
Rijksmuseums Muiderslot and Slot Loevestein are two atmospheric Dutch castles with a rich history. Both castles feature a moat, ramparts and bulwarks. In the past, these two defences were part of both the Old and New Dutch Waterlines. The Muiderslot is also part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam. Today, you can enjoy a unique day out here.
Explore the castles in the water lines
Forts and Fortresses
The Dutch Water Defence Lines are home to 96 forts. These impressive brick or concrete buildings were once used to protect vulnerable spots in the water lines. Now places to explore, relax and enjoy.
Six fortified towns are also part of the Dutch Water Defence Lines. The fortresses in the Dutch Water Defence Lines fulfilled an important role in defending the administrative heart of the Netherlands against the enemy from the east. Now they are characteristic towns with narrow streets and attractive shops.
Visit a fort or fortified town