Beneath the streets of the centre of Bergen op Zoom lies a special secret: an impressive fortification that has remained hidden underground for some three hundred years. It was designed by the famous military engineer Menno van Coehoorn and is part of the city's old defences. You can reach this ‘Hidden Fortress’ via a staircase in the middle of a modern new housing development. Once you are down, you step into an enormous underground space that immediately transports you back in time.

From the end of the 17th century, Bergen op Zoom was developed over more than fifty years into one of the strongest fortified cities in Europe. Due to its strategic location, the city was highly sought after and had to be well protected. Around the old city, an extensive network of bastions, ravelins, and other defensive works emerged, which was much larger than the city itself. This allowed enemy heavy artillery to be kept at a distance.

In the underground cellar, archaeological remains of this fortress can be seen. With the help of three large cinema screens, you'll be transported to the dramatic French siege of 1747, when the town was captured after weeks of fighting. Here you'll also discover what a major gallery is, how underground passages were used during a siege and how mines were employed to blow up walls. Even the old spiral staircase, along which soldiers moved, is still visible.

What is particularly special is the way old and new come together here. The homes built above this fortification stand on bore piles which have been carefully placed around the ancient structure. In this way, this unique piece of history is safely preserved, deep beneath modern Bergen op Zoom.

To be able to visit this servant with an appointment to be made.

Important: It is necessary to know that the Hidden Fortress is located underground in a specially constructed cellar and is only accessible via a staircase. Therefore, unfortunately, the Hidden Fortress is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users.

General information:

• Type: Underground monument, archaeology
• Visit Archaeology Tour — first Saturday of the month, start at the ArcheoHotSpot or via City guides
• Reservation: Required