Fort Nassau - Monument

Fort Nassau, located near the border village of Retranchement, is a remarkable historic site where nature and history come together.

History of Fort Nassau

• Historic Fort from the Eighty Years’ War: During the Eighty Years’ War (1568–1648), Prince Maurice conquered the strategic town of Sluis. To protect the harbour and access via Het Zwin, he had the forts Berchem, Nassau, and Oranje built, collectively known as Retranchement Cadsandria.
• Impressive Ramparts: Between approximately 1621 and 1640, the forts Nassau and Oranje were reinforced with strong ramparts. These historic earthworks are still visible today and form a unique walking area.
• Remarkable Historical Stories: On the opposite side of the sea channel once stood Spanish forts that posed a constant threat. Fort Oranje later partly disappeared due to flooding from Het Zwin, while Fort Nassau and its ramparts have been preserved as tangible reminders of this turbulent period.

What can you expect at Fort Nassau?

• Viewing Point with 3D Cannons: In 2021, a new viewing platform was created at Fort Nassau featuring two corten steel replica cannons. From here, you have a stunning view over the landscape, the village of Retranchement, and nature reserve Het Zwin, as if the cannons could come back to life at any moment.
• The “Triplets” of Retranchement: From the fort, you can see the famous three border posts with number 364. As the area used to be underwater and the exact border was difficult to determine, multiple posts were placed. After land reclamation, this special “trio” remained.
• Walking Along the Ramparts: A large part of the fortifications has walking paths. Discover the story of the Eighty Years’ War (1568–1648) while enjoying beautiful views over nature reserve Het Zwin and the surrounding landscape.

Practical information

• Location: Fort Nassau is located near the village of Retranchement. Via a path from the Dorpsstraat, you can walk through the meadows to the fort.
• Visit: The fort and its ramparts are freely accessible and make a lovely stop during a walking or cycling tour in the Zwin region. Along the way and on the western bastion, you will find seating and viewing areas with wooden platforms and gabions, perfect for enjoying the scenery.
• Parking: There is a spacious car park at the junction of Knokkeweg and Kanaalweg, a short distance from the fort.

Fort Nassau combines cultural history with a beautiful landscape. Walk along the ramparts, enjoy the tranquillity of the border area, and discover how this small fort once played an important role in defending Zeeland.

Furthermore Fort Nassau is near the following sights: Fort Berchem (±450 m), Mill of Retranchement (±900 m), Panorama Pier near Retranchement (±1,0 km), Play Meadow Retranchement (±1,0 km) & Zoute Stables (±2,3 km).

For information

Killedijk, Retranchement