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In the 1870s, the fortifications of Antwerp were deemed to be out of date, given the increased range and power of artillery and explosives. Antwerp was transformed into a fortified position by constructing an outer line of forts and batteries 6 to 9 miles (14 km) from the enceinte.
Oct 8, 2024 · In July 1584, Farnese laid siege to Antwerp. He constructed a network of forts that cut off access to Antwerp by land. Next, he decided to block the Scheldt River, which connected Antwerp to the rebel-controlled north. Huge piers were thrown out from heavily armed forts on either side of the Scheldt.
Jun 3, 2024 · The construction of a fortified castle (the Steen) by the Franks in the 9th century signified the city’s strategic importance along the River Scheldt. The Steen, Antwerp. Trade blossomed, attracting merchants from across the continent. By the 14th century, Antwerp’s Merchant Guilds had arisen, ensuring regulated and prosperous trade practices.
Oct 8, 2024 · Antwerp became involved in the revolt of the Netherlands and was taken, in 1585, by Alessandro Farnese, duke of Parma, governor general for the Spanish king. The consequences of this strife with Spain were severe: from 1585 to 1589 the population diminished from 80,000 to 42,000.
The Fort of Duffel or the 'Railway Fort' was built in 1886. It was part of a larger fortification belt around Antwerp comparable to the Walem Fort and the ones of Sint-Katelijne-Waver and Lier. During the 19 th century Antwerp was the national 'reduit' or refuge of Belgium.
Brave Little Belgium - Fortress Antwerp. Through its important position at the head of the long estuary of the Scheldt, Antwerp plays a major role in any strategic military thinking concerning the Low Countries. It forms a natural supply base and military centre.
The fall of Antwerp (Dutch: val van Antwerpen [vɑl vɑn ˈɑntʋɛrpə (n)]) on 17 August 1585 took place during the Eighty Years' War, after a siege lasting over a year from July 1584 until August 1585.
