Fort Duffel

Military construction

The railway fort at Duffel was built at the end of the nineteenth century to defend the railway line between Brussels and Antwerp. The fort is part of the outer fort belt around Antwerp. Because of its mixed construction of brick walls and concrete vaults with an underground passage, this fort is unique. Today there is an experiential exhibit and a brasserie.

Wintering place for bats

The fort is an ideal wintering place for bats. Some rooms in the fort were not restored, in order not to disturb the bats’ habitat. For this reason, you cannot walk around the fortress island in the winter months. The underground passage is also omitted during guided tours.

Look at the fort in 3D and plan your visit at www.fortduffel.be!

The role of Kempens Landschap

Our organisation has owned the fort since 2009.  In less than five years, this military heritage site underwent a veritable transformation. It was supported by European, Flemish, provincial and municipal means. In 2014, the fort opened its doors to the general public.

In 2016, the fort of Duffel was awarded a Built Heritage prize by the Flemish government. Be sure to watch the film below, in which the site is introduced.

Just a stone’s throw away from the fort is Roosendael, another interesting domain managed by Kempens Landschap!