Military heritage 12: Fort Gravenwezel and anti-tank canal

A Relic of Belgium's Defenses Nestled in the municipality of Schilde, Belgium, Fort van 's-Gravenwezel stands as a silent sentinel of a bygone era. As part of the Antwerp Fortress, it played a crucial role in Belgium's defense strategy during the early 20th century. Constructed between 1909 and 1912, the fort was designed to withstand heavy artillery bombardment and protect the city of Antwerp. The fort saw action during World War I when it resisted the German advance for several days in October 1914. However, the German forces eventually overwhelmed the Belgian defenses and captured Antwerp. Despite its valiant stand, the fort's limitations in the face of modern warfare became apparent. A New Line of Defense In the interwar period, military strategists recognized the need for a more effective defense against the growing threat of armored warfare. To complement the existing network of forts, the Belgian Army embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of an anti-tank canal. This massive water barrier, encircling Antwerp, aimed to impede the advance of enemy tanks and create a formidable obstacle. Completed in the late 1930s, the anti-tank canal, combined with the forts and other defensive structures, formed the heart of the Antwerp Fortress. However, the outbreak of World War II in 1940 put these defenses to the test. Despite the valiant efforts of the Belgian and Allied forces, the German Blitzkrieg proved overwhelming. A Legacy of Defense Today, Fort van 's-Gravenwezel and the anti-tank canal serve as poignant reminders of a time when Belgium was on the frontline of European defense. While the fort itself is no longer accessible to the public, the surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and cycling. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort and trace the path of the anti-tank canal, gaining a deeper appreciation for the engineering feats and sacrifices of those who built and defended it.