SPANJAARDSGAT (BREDA CASTLE)

Spanjaardsgat is a historic vestige of Breda's former fortifications, located to the north of the city. The site consists of two seven-sided towers flanking a gate. The name "Spanjaardsgat" literally means "Spanish hole", referring to a significant event in local history.

In the early ^16th century, as Breda prospered and attracted interest, William III ordered the fortification of the city walls, including the construction of Spanjaardsgat to improve the drainage of water from the castle moat. A famous anecdote is linked to this place: in 1590, while Spanish soldiers were celebrating Mardi Gras, Dutch soldiers concealed under peat in a boat discreetly entered the fortress. Taking advantage of the Spaniards' drunkenness and inattention, they managed to regain control of the town. This ruse recalls the story of the Trojan horse.

Behind Spanjaardsgat lies Breda Castle, home to the Royal Netherlands Military Academy since 1828. Although its foundations date back to the ^16th century, the castle's current appearance dates back to the late ^17th century. The building is characterized by a large number of windows and a storey added later by the military academy, identifiable by the darker color of the bricks. Built by William III of Nassau, the castle was once surrounded by ramparts and flanked by four large defensive towers.