Fort 7

Fort 7 was built between 1859 and 1864 as part of the Fortifications of Antwerp, a military defense line intended to protect the city from occupation and guard against bombing. During World War II, Fort 7 served as an ammunition storage facility for the German Luftwaffe.

Today, the fort is not publicly accessible, but it is part of a nature reserve that is largely managed by Natuurpunt. Guides do occasionally organize tours there. The fort is heavily overgrown and is home to valuable fauna and flora. The fishing waters around the fort are managed by the fishing club De Meyvis. The buildings, moats, and ramparts are protected as monuments.

“As a walker, this is a wonderful area to explore along the slow roads,” says Sabine. “They are a great way to get people moving. Adults should engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, while children should get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per day. Research has shown that only a minority of Antwerp residents meet this activity guideline.”

Hanna Van Thienen