The first forts around Utrecht were built from 1816. Forts such as the Gagel, Blauwkapel and De Bilt – all of which were close to the city – were supposed to protect important access roads, railway lines and dikes. However, the developments in warfare went so fast that the forts soon no longer formed a good line of defense, after which a second ring of forts was built from 1867 onwards. Forts that were more resistant to artillery and were a bit further from the city. With forts such as Rijnauwen, Vechten, Voordorp and the Hemeltje, the defense of Utrecht was strengthened.
Along the Dutch Waterlines, about how fortresses and water protected us
