Fort at the Ossenmarkt - Weesp

Fort aan de Ossenmarkt was built to defend both banks of the River Vecht, the locks, and the Amsterdam–Hilversum railway line with its bridge over the Vecht. The tower fort at the Ossenmarkt dates back to 1861. Later, an earthwork was added on the eastern side and the moat was filled in. Between 1983 and 1985, this earthwork was removed and the moat and bridge were restored. At the entrance of the restored fort, the original drawbridge mechanism is still visible.

Today, the fort houses a music school, several associations, and business spaces. The wooden artillery shed from 1877 is used as an exhibition space. The former engineers' grounds also feature a garden shop.

During the fort season, the Historisch Maatschap organises guided tours and boat trips in and around Fort aan de Ossenmarkt. The ‘Waterlanders’ audio walk (approx. 4 km) also starts from the fort, offering a theatrical journey of discovery along the River Vecht. In September, the fort is open to visitors every Saturday.
The photo of the entrance gate is by Kenneth Stamp.