Fort 5

Fort 5 is a polygonal military fortress located in Edegem, Antwerp, built between 1859 and 1864 as part of the Brialmont defensive ring surrounding Antwerp. Designed with thick earthen ramparts, moats, caponiers for flanking fire, and underground galleries, the fort was intended to withstand siege warfare using mid-19th century artillery technology. During the 1914 Siege of Antwerp, the fort was heavily bombarded on October 8th and subsequently captured by German forces, with a memorial commemorating 16 people executed there. Today the fort serves as a municipal park, nature reserve, and cultural venue hosting public events, educational programs, and historical tours.