Bourtange Fortress Museum, Stichting Vesting Bourtange — Attraction in Westerwolde

My Dutch friends surprised me (one of several times on my trip to Europe) by taking me to this star-shaped, moat-encompassed fortress/museum, operating as a living tribute and reenactment of 16th century Dutch military and rural life.

For the visiting tourist, Bourtange has just about everything you would want, and expect to see: a narrow bridge crossing a canal; a rustic windmill rising stoically above the rooftops; a modest chapel, thatched roof buildings, including a smithy; a falconer dressed in period attire, with a bird of prey perched majestically on his arm. Touches of the modern are almost as pervasive, including a central marktplein, complete with an expansive gift shop, restaurant and vendor booths.

There's a lot to see here, and it can easily keep you occupied for an entire day. Museums, live re-enactments, shopping, food, and simply taking in the architecture, preserved with practicality, care and precision, as is the Dutch way. This is the sort of living historical record that has the rare ability to engage both young and old alike; your kids might just put down their phones long enough to enjoy it, especially at the sound of a nearby...

Bourtange is in the boundary of The Netherlands and Germany. For me, this is the place where you can go to relax with your family. It is quiet place and for the children is very safe. There are diff. Historical Museum, different stores , Restaurant, Church, antique molens , very fascinating to go there and if you are first timer to go in that place, you will be amazed with what all you can see.... ————————-

Lodewijkstraat 33. 9545 PA Bourtange. The Bourtange fortress is also referred to as the fortress that was never conquered. The order for the construction of an initial reinforcement to an important passage through the marsh was given in 1580 by the illustrious William of Orange. The fortress was...

I've been here twice, once during the fall season and now during Christmas season and both times it was incredibly cute and cozy. I've been to both markets, the regular one in Fall and the Christmas market and it's always been a wonderful time to walk around the adorable houses and shops as well as walking around the fort itself.

I can highly recommend coming here at least once and particularly during the Christmas season. They have many kid friendly activities, too. You do have to purchase tickets for the markets but the prices are sensible, in my opinion. The market opening times and special themes can be found on their website.

It's such a great highlight in Groningen province and a wonderful...