Bridge from the Fort, Lange Vechtbrug, Weesp, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
In 1672 Louis XIV of France together with his allies assaulted the young Dutch Republic with all the devastation such warfare wreaks. Weesp was also attacked but French forces soon withdrew; the so-called European Treaties of Nijmegen (1678-1679) put an end to French attempts on northern Dutch lands; until the age of Napoleon, of course.
Regardless, a great set of protective forts was built throughout the Republic, also in Weesp. To that end an island with two fortifications was constructed in the Vecht River next to the town. It was called the Ossenmarkt and a bridge was built to connect to the town. A map of the late seventeenth century gives a good indication.
In a peaceful setting, this photo shows the Lange Vechtbrug from the island on the fort side.
Bridge from the Fort, Lange Vechtbrug, Weesp, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
In 1672 Louis XIV of France together with his allies assaulted the young Dutch Republic with all the devastation such warfare wreaks. Weesp was also attacked but French forces soon withdrew; the so-called European Treaties of Nijmegen (1678-1679) put an end to French attempts on northern Dutch lands; until the age of Napoleon, of course.
Regardless, a great set of protective forts was built throughout the Republic, also in Weesp. To that end an island with two fortifications was constructed in the Vecht River next to the town. It was called the Ossenmarkt and a bridge was built to connect to the town. A map of the late seventeenth century gives a good indication.
In a peaceful setting, this photo shows the Lange Vechtbrug from the island on the fort side.