Spanjaardsgat

The towers of the Spanjaardsgat are remnants of the fortifications that Count Henry III of Nassau had constructed in 1530.

The Spanjaardsgat consists of two defensive towers, built by Count Hendrik III. The left tower is called 'Grenade Tower.' Because homing pigeons were kept in the right tower for William of Orange, it was called 'Dovecote Tower.' The towers now serve as chapels, and the Dovecote Tower also houses the information centre of the Dutch Defence Academy, of which the Royal Military Academy (KMA) is a part.

Many people think that the trick with the turf ship took place here in 1590, but that happened a little further away, at the current sports field of the KMA. Turf skipper Adriaan van Bergen then recaptured the Castle from the Spaniards by smuggling soldiers of Prince Maurice into the castle walls in his ship.

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Spainardsgate

Spanjaardsgat

Breda

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Explore Accessible Hotspot

Spanjaardsgat is part of the Explore accessible walking route. With this route, you will get to know the accessibility of Breda, because Breda is also enjoyable to visit if you have limited mobility. The route takes you past various places in the city that tell a story or where you can simply enjoy a coffee. From the station to the historic centre, be surprised and enjoy accessible Breda.

Two men in a wheelchair, in the green Willem Merkxtuin in Breda. In the background, you see the Grote Kerk Breda

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