Nederland - Weesp, Fort Ossenmarkt

Fort Ossenmarkt (Fort Ox Market) in the fortified town of Weesp was built to defend the two banks of the river Vecht, the locks, and the Amsterdam–Hilversum railway with the bridge over the Vecht. The small tower fort is dating back to the year of 1861. Later, a protective wall was erected on the east side and the moat was filled. In 1983-1985, this wall was removed and the moat and bridge were restored to their former glory.

After 1815, the fortified town of Weesp formed part of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie (New Dutch Waterline). In 1892 the town was incorporated into the Defence Line of Amsterdam.

A while ago Fort Ossenmarkt was restored. The former engineering site houses a garden shop and the wooden artillery depot - dating back to 1877 - is used as an exhibition space. In addition, the Fort at the Ossenmarkt houses a music school and is home to various associations and offices.

The fort is not accessible to the public, but is open to a limited extent on certain occasions. As part of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie, Fort Ossenmarkt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.