The Defence Line of Amsterdam is a former defence line around the city of Amsterdam that is 135 kilometres long and has 42 forts. In addition to the forts, the Defence Line of Amsterdam also comprises defence line dykes, military depots, sluices and arsenals. The Defence Line was built between 1880 and 1914 at a distance of 15 to 20 kilometres from Amsterdam, to keep the capital city out of range of enemy fire. The area outside the Defence Line could be flooded in times of danger (inundation). The Defence Line of Amsterdam served as a ’National Escape’, a last retreat for the government and army if another important defence line, the New Dutch Inundation Line, were breached. Although the Defence Line’s purpose as a defensive work belongs to the past, many sections of it are very well preserved. This website tells something about the historical background and present significance of the Defence Line of Amsterdam.

© Stichting Platform Werelderfgoed Nederland