Did you know that Fort bij de Liebrug was once nicknamed “Fort Knox”? Right here before us stands this unassuming fort a testament to Amsterdam’s rich history. It’s part of the Stelling van Amsterdam a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built between 1896 and 1914 this impressive ring of fortifications was designed to defend Amsterdam from attack. Fort bij de Liebrug played a crucial role in protecting the vulnerable access point formed by the railway the canal and the road between Amsterdam and Haarlem.
While other larger forts in the Stelling housed 300 men Fort bij de Liebrug had a smaller garrison of around 175. It was deemed sufficient given the nearby Fort aan de Liede and Fort bij Penningsveer. Its strategic location though made it vital in defending these vital transportation routes.
The fort itself is a Type A design. Unlike many other forts of its kind the size of its keel casemates the semicircular side chambers differs. This unique asymmetry reflects its specific defensive needs. After World War II the fort unexpectedly became a storage facility for food for the Dutch army. Its cool interior was ideal for preserving cheese fruit and other provisions. Imagine the scene soldiers storing these rations in the very place designed to withstand enemy fire.
Then came its “Fort Knox” days. In the 1970s Brink’s a secure valuables transport company used it as a vault. This led to its popular nickname. Inside precious goods such as rough diamonds confiscated artwork from war criminal Pieter Menten and even original Sony music recordings were secured. The daily overnight storage limit was a staggering 100 million guilders often exceeded.
Today the fort is once again evolving. After Brink’s relocated around the turn of the millennium it became home to smaller businesses including wine importers and an equestrian company. Stadsherstel Amsterdam acquired the fort in 2018 restoring it and opening it up to the public. So as you stand here you’re not just looking at a fort. You are experiencing a living piece of Amsterdam’s past present and future a place where history and modern life meet in a unique blend. The story of Fort bij de Liebrug is a reminder that even the most formidable structures can adapt and find new purpose throughout the ages.