Kipdorpsite: Antwerp's Historical Gateway

Kipdorpsite is a captivating historical site located in the heart of Antwerp, Belgium. This open-air landmark showcases the remnants of the city's 16th-century Spanish fortifications, providing a tangible link to Antwerp's past. The site features the excavated remains of the Kipdorp Bridge, a crucial access point to the city, along with a section of the bastion and the original city walls. Originally constructed between 1543 and 1548, the Kipdorp Gate was one of the main entrances to Antwerp, connecting the city to the Kempen region and northern Brabant. The gate was defended by a pentagonal bastion, an Italian invention, and accessed via a bridge across the city moat. This defensive structure played a significant role in Antwerp's history, including during the French Fury in 1583. In the 19th century, as Antwerp grew into a major world harbor, the fortifications were demolished to make way for expansion. The moats were filled, and boulevards (Leien) were built on top, burying the Kipdorp Bridge. However, during the construction of the Noorderlijn tram line between 2016 and 2019, the well-preserved remnants of the Kipdorpsite were rediscovered and excavated. Today, visitors can explore the restored Kipdorpsite, which has been integrated into the modern urban landscape. The site includes visible sections of the bridge's vaults and the casemate walls of the bastion. The excavation also revealed thousands of artifacts, including pottery, coins, and ammunition, providing insights into the daily life around Kipdorpsite throughout the centuries. The area is now an open-air site, allowing visitors to stroll through history and appreciate the architectural marvels that once defended the city.