Follow in Napoleon's footsteps
Napoleon Bonaparte, the famous French emperor, recognized the strategic value of Den Helder during his visit and, in 1811, ordered the construction of a series of defenses to protect the city from invasion. The Den Helder defense line was constructed, of which Fort Kijkduin is a part. At Fort Kijkduin, you can learn all about the history of the fort, as well as that of the nature and surrounding area through the impressive North Sea Aquarium. The exhibition depicts the British invasion of 1799, which clearly demonstrated the need for a proper defense system in Den Helder. Underground tunnels, a beautiful landscape, underwater life, and the dunes form the backdrop to the imposing Fort Kijkduin.
The North Sea Aquarium
Did you know sharks live in the North Sea? Would you dare to feed them? In the renovated North Sea Aquarium at Fort Kijkduin, you can! A visit to the aquarium is an exciting and educational adventure. From the nurseries in the Wadden Sea to the depths of the North Sea, the underwater life is truly impressive. The most spectacular aquarium is the 15-meter-long walk-through tunnel, where fish swim not only beside you, but also above and below you.
For a Day Soldier
Fort Kijkduin recently underwent an impressive modernization with new exhibits. In the aquarium, you'll learn how (marine) animals attack and defend, and in the museum, you'll see how armies and countries do this. In the renovated family exhibition, you can explore with your (grand)parents what it's like to live and work at the fort as a soldier.
The museum and the North Sea Aquarium are open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
View current opening hours on the Fort Kijkduin website.
