Functions Fort Aalsmeer
Fort Aalsmeer consists of two detached buildings with a retractable turret and a front building that is connected to the main building by a gate. Unique to this fort is the double sluice, used as a water inlet water and as a transit port for shipping. Fort Aalsmeer was restored in 1996 and part of the main building was used as a training centre for the fire brigade until 2006. Signs of these activities are still visible. The CRASH Air Warfare and Resistance Museum ’40- ’45 opened in 2009 at the fort.
Defence Line of Amsterdam: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Fort Aalsmeer is part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam. This is a military defence line – built between 1880 and 1914 – and an ingenious system to keep the enemy out during the two world wars. Thanks to the Defence Line of Amsterdam, the land around the line could be flooded, resulting in a lake that was not deep enough for ships but too deep for man or horses to cross. It has never been needed. During periods of war, the line was put in position to defend the city of Amsterdam, but no battles took place. The Defence Line has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1996.
