Fort Werk 4

In the heart of the Netherlands, nestled within the municipality of Gooise Meren, lies the impressive Fort Werk 4, originally known as Fort Werk IV. This remarkable fortification, built between 1868 and 1870, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and strategic military planning of the late 19th century. As the largest and most significant of a series of five defensive earthworks constructed to protect the Naarden Fortress, Fort Werk 4 is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The Strategic Importance of Fort Werk 4

Fort Werk 4 was constructed during a period of significant advancements in artillery technology. The increased range and power of artillery necessitated the defense of the Naarden Fortress from a greater distance. Thus, between 1867 and 1870, the Naarden Offensive was established, with Fort Werk 4 serving as its centerpiece. Positioned approximately 2200 meters south of the Naarden Fortress, Fort Werk 4 was strategically located on the highest point of the former Bussumer Eng, providing a commanding view of the surrounding terrain.

The fort's primary purpose was to shield the elevated area south of the Naarden Fortress, lying beyond the inundations of the waterline. From this vantage point, offensive actions against invading armies were possible. In the initial phase of conflict, field armies would position themselves in front of the inundations, retreating behind them if necessary. The fortifications, including Fort Werk 4, provided crucial protection, allowing troops time to safely withdraw to the Naarden Fortress. The total expenditure for the Naarden Offensive amounted to one and a half million guilders, a significant investment in the defense of the region.

Architectural Features and Layout

Fort Werk 4 is a marvel of military engineering, primarily constructed as a defensible earthwork. The fort's highest point reaches 18.5 meters above sea level, offering an excellent vantage point over the surrounding landscape. The sand for the fort was obtained by excavating the area in front of it, which was later used as an exercise ground. The fort's dimensions are impressive, with the front measuring 116 meters, the sides approximately 53 meters, and the rear 120 meters.

One of the fort's most distinctive features is the 10-meter-wide dry moat that surrounds it. The inner side of the moat is lined with a crenellated stone wall, complete with loopholes for firing. This unique use of a crenellated wall in the Netherlands allowed defenders to fire upon attackers attempting to cross the moat. The fort also includes three masonry buildings: two bombproof structures with three rooms each in the flanks, and a central poterne. The left flank building served as living quarters and housed the powder magazine, while the right flank building accommodated the garrison and contained the kitchen. Behind the fort stands an artillery shed for storing weapons. The original wooden shed burned down during World War I but was rebuilt in stone.

Military Use and Historical Significance

Fort Werk 4 saw military use only during World War I. Between 1914 and 1918, approximately 60 concrete group shelters were constructed for the Naarden Offensive, though the full line of fortifications was never completed. These shelters, which could accommodate 8 to 16 soldiers, are still visible among the trees, though they are no longer accessible, having been filled with sand and sealed after World War II.

In 1926, the fortifications, including the Naarden Fortress, were decommissioned as military defenses. Four years later, the municipality of Bussum purchased Fort Werk 4. While the other fortifications have since disappeared, Fort Werk 4 remains, its sand used to fill in the Bussum harbor around 1939.

Modern-Day Fort Werk 4

In the 1930s, part of the rear wall of Fort Werk 4 was demolished to facilitate sports events, such as equestrian competitions. After World War II, the fort fell into disrepair, with various municipal services using parts of it for storage and other purposes. In 1967, the municipality considered demolishing the fort to expand sports fields, but the Stichting Menno van Coehoorn successfully lobbied for its preservation. In 1969, Fort Werk 4 was added to the national monument list.

In 1997, the Stichting tot Beheer van Fort Werk IV was established to manage the fort, and in 1998, the municipality of Bussum leased the fort to the foundation. In 2009, the process began to designate the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie, including Fort Werk 4, as a national monument. In 2011, Fortenland, an organization of forts and castles in the Gooi and Vecht region, received the Cultural Prize of North Holland from the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds.

Since July 2018, the fort has been owned by the theater Spant!, which aims to make Fort Werk 4 even more accessible to the public. Today, visitors can explore the fort's rich history and architectural features, gaining insight into the strategic military planning of the late 19th century. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique and educational outing, Fort Werk 4 offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and an opportunity to appreciate the enduring legacy of this remarkable fortification.