Fort Bourtange

Fort Bourtange was built at the end of the 16th century as a defensive structure in the Eighty Years' War. From the bastions you could look out in all directions for enemies. Or rather at how enemy troops sank disconsolately into the surrounding swamp. A century later, Bourtange was made famous by Captain Prott. The enemy bishop Bernard van Galen, better known in Groningen as Bommen Berend, tried to bribe Prott with a 'golden bombardment': an offer of 200,000 guilders or a noble estate in Westphalia. By all accounts, Prott's response was clear: "200,000 bullets you can have!" Bourtange withstood the ensuing attack and the enemy had no choice but to dismount.

Bourtange has been fully restored to the situation of the time, including ramparts, moats and red-painted drawbridges. Prott's heroic actions are still re-enacted every year with a battle. But besides that, Bourtange is also just a village with modern inhabitants. And that was exactly how it used to be. In de fort lived soldiers with their families and civilians who helped with all kinds of things. Many of the buildings that were there then can still be seen inside. The school, the church and the mill: a visit to the old fortress is a true journey back in time.

When you visit Bourtange, you can enjoy yourself all day long. You will discover Bourtange with various walking routes, there are all kinds of shops and catering establishments, as well as an old-fashioned candle-making shop. In addition, spectacular events are organised regularly. From various markets to realistically re-enacted battles. If you prefer to dive into the history of the fortified town, you can visit not just one but several museums. Everywhere, you will take an impressive journey through time. End the day in a real box bed in the middle of de fort and experience how things used to be here, even at night. And don't be alarmed by the bang, because the old cannon is still fired here on Sunday afternoons.

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