The original belt of fortresses around Antwerp consists of 8 Brialmont fortresses, built from 1859. They were built in an 18 km long line from Wijnegem to Hoboken. A further 8 fortresses were built between 1870 and 1900, on the outer line at ±10 km from Antwerp as the crow flies. The Fortress of Lier dates from this period. 11 more fortresses were built after 1906. Together they form the Defence of Antwerp, a 95 km wide ring around the city.
During WWI, the Fort was badly damaged in 1914 by bombardment from heavy German artillery.
Apart from bats, the fortress is also home to several associations, including shooting clubs.
The Fortress of Koningshooikt is an armoured fortress that is part of the belt of fortresses around Antwerp and the KW line. Today it is used for airsoft, fishing or events.