Buurtschap Noordschans (Fort Hollandia)

Fort Hollandia / Noordschans was built around 1639 to defend the lock in the Aalskreek and the entrances to the dike. It was a square defense with bastions on the corners. It was surrounded by a moat. A flood destroyed Fort Hollandia in 1682. It has not been restored since then. But the name is actually all that remains of this fort, which was named after a hamlet. Neighborhood Noordschans is a quiet village where almost nothing reminds of the war bustle of yesteryear. Yet you can still spot remnants of the fort. Look for the bend in the dike for the former location.