Before Napoleon became first consul, the French had already decided to turn Antwerp into a military and naval base. His visit to the city in 1803 accelerated everything.
Keizerspoort Gate was one of the five gateways into the city during the period of the Spanish ramparts. In 2002, the foundation of the gate was excavated.
Antwerp had an impressive port and quays. This “protected mooring” ran from St. Michael's Abbey in the south to the Bastion of Kattenberg to the north of the city.
Antwerp’s Steen Castle was part of the walled fortress city of Antwerp. It served as a residence for the margrave and at one time was also a museum. Nowadays it is an educational space for children.
