National Redoubt of Belgium - Act of 1851

Act of 1851

Halfway through the 19th century after the emergence of Napoleon III in 1851 it was clear that the Belgian army did not have the capability to resist an attack from France. It was necessary to centralize defence. It was decided to build a ring of fortresses around Antwerp, the “fortjes 1-7”. These were originally built as earthen ramparts, but were later reinforced by stone structures.