Bourtange is a beautifully preserved star-shaped fortress in the Netherlands, near the German border. Originally built in 1593 during the Eighty Years’ War, it was strategically designed to control the only accessible route between Germany and the city of Groningen. The fort remained in military use until 1851, after which it became a rural village.
Today, Bourtange has been meticulously restored to its 18th-century appearance, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and defensive canals. The fort now serves as an open-air museum, with reenactments, period-costumed guides, and exhibitions detailing its military history.
