Fort Amsterdam St Maarten

Name: Fort Amsterdam
Item: Fort Amsterdam
Author: We Love Saint Martin

Sandwiched between Great Bay and Little Bay, Fort Amsterdam St Maarten stands proud on the peninsula overlooking the ocean with the Dutch capital, Philipsburg, not far behind. These remains once made up the first Dutch military base in the Caribbean. Fort Amsterdam St Maarten is a place where you can enjoy stunning views over the historic centre of Philisburg and the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Panoramic views from the fort offer some of the best photo opportunities on the island. Visiting the fort at sunrise or sunset is very popular; the colours are simply stunning. Fort Amsterdam not only offers stunning ocean views, it is also an annual breeding ground for pelicans. These beautiful birds build dozens of nests along the peninsula each year.

This popular attraction dates back to 1631. Over the years when the French, Dutch and British were fighting over the ownership of St Martin, the fort changed hands many times. It wasn’t until the late 19th Century that Fort Amsterdam St Maarten was decommissioned.

Today, a number of walls still remain scattered around the fort grounds. The historic cannons which once protected the island from invaders still point out to sea. In 1987 there was a very exciting discovery at Fort Amsterdam; the skeleton of a Spanish soldier was uncovered. It’s possible to find out more about this discovery and the number of artefacts found during the dig at St Maarten Museum.

The fort is just 3 kilometres from Philipsburg and can be reached easily on foot. A scenic coastal trail from the centre of town will lead you directly to Fort Amsterdam. It is also possible to cycle to the fort along a paved path and you can drive to the fort too. Entry into the fort is free and there is a car park at nearby Divi Little Bay Resort for those who opt to drive.

Fort Amsterdam

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