Cities in the Netherlands
North Sea Region II
The Story of Retranchement
A word used in 17th century fortress building to describe ‘retreating to a wall or trench when the primary defense is breached.’ At one time or another it was known as ‘Tresement’ (perhaps the Dutch pronunciation of the French word) and ‘Cadsandria’. It was an independent municipality until 1970. The village developed near the fortifications of Retranchement Cadsandria (built in 1604 under Prince Maurice). The fortress itself - Fort Oranje - was demolished in a devastating storm in 1682. Bulwarks, the old mill and the church have been restored in recent decades.
Visitors Centre ‘t Zwin displays a collection of local flora and fauna as well as locally found fossils.