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Castle · Ostende, Flandres Ocidental
Fort Napoleon
Fort from 1811 in the dunes by the entrance to the port of Ostende, built in the Napoleonic era against a British attack. Restored, it welcomes visitors with a route that tells two centuries of history.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fort Napoleon
Fort Napoleon began to be built in 1811 in the dunes near the entrance to the port of Ostende, when Napoleon feared a British attack on the city. Named Fort Impérial, it has a pentagonal layout, with an inner courtyard, ditches and grass-covered walls, and at one time had 36 cannons.
After 1815 the British renamed it Fort William, and with Belgian independence in 1830 it became known as Fort Napoleon. In World War II it served as the headquarters for the German artillery defending the coast. Afterwards it was abandoned for decades.
Restored by the organization Erfgoed Vlaanderen, the fort now welcomes visitors to the restored interior spaces and a route of stories about events of the last two centuries. There is a version adapted for children.
Because it stands on the east bank of the port, near the dunes, the fort is also a walking spot through the green area and along the waterfront on the far side of the canal.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one hour to one and a half hours.
Best time
Open Tuesday to Sunday during the day; usually closed on Mondays. Confirm before you go.
How to get there
It is on the east bank of the port, on Vuurtorenweg. From the centre of Ostende, cross the port canal and follow the dunes; the Kusttram also runs nearby.
Tip
Combine the fort with a walk through the dunes and the beach on the east side, which is quieter than the central promenade.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort Napoleon
Why is the fort called Napoleon?
It was built in 1811, when the region was under Napoleon's rule, to defend the port of Ostende from a British attack.
Is Fort Napoleon good for children?
Yes. There is a story trail with a version adapted for children.