The major maintenance of the historic fortification Nieuwe Achtkant in Weesp has been completed.
This fortification is part of two defense lines that used to protect Weesp and the surrounding area. The restoration has further strengthened the fortress character of the city.
Preservation of cultural heritage
The fortification is special because it was built on top of a remise (storage space for artillery). This made the fortification higher than others in the area, which previously caused unsafe situations when visitors climbed it.
This issue was resolved during the redesign. At the same time, the remise was made visible again to the public. The fortification was also finished with corten steel, a material used in several places along the Stelling van Amsterdam. This makes it better integrated with the landscape and other parts of the line.
Nieuwe Achtkant is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Hollandse Waterlinies. Therefore, the maintenance focused on preserving and highlighting this cultural-historical value.
Appreciation for years of dedication
During the official completion on Wednesday, March 11, the new information board was unveiled. René Ros, a resident of Weesp, was also honored for his years of volunteer work for the Stelling van Amsterdam. Through his website, newsletter, excursions, and lectures, he makes this world heritage accessible to a broad audience.
As a token of appreciation, he received a silver commemorative coin of 5 euros from Deputy Jelle Beemsterboer. This coin was issued by the Royal Dutch Mint on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the UNESCO World Heritage Hollandse Waterlinies.
Anniversary Hollandse Waterlinies
The Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Stelling van Amsterdam five years ago. Since then, they together form the UNESCO World Heritage Hollandse Waterlinies. To celebrate this, various activities and events will take place from April 16. More information can be found on the website Opens an external link.