The secret weapon of Amsterdam

26 October 2025

^ Navigate through the entire photo series with the arrows ^

Tim (66) retired just over half a year ago, shortly after which he became a host on Pampus. Before starting his volunteer work there, he had never been to Pampus. He saw a recruitment advertisement, thought it might be fun, but only discovered how enjoyable it was once he started there.As a host, he welcomes visitors, provides information, and manages the shop. In addition, he guides his guests to the newest attraction of Pampus: ‘The Secret Weapon of Amsterdam.’ This is a virtual balloon ride above the Defense Line of Amsterdam.

Pampus is a Fort Island that is part of the Defense Line of Amsterdam: a defense line around Amsterdam that was built between 1880 and 1920. By the time the construction of the line was completed, it was already outdated, and the Defense Line never saw active service. In 1933, Pampus was closed. It then fell into disrepair until the Pampus Fort Island Foundation became the owner and manager in 1990 and, with the help of many volunteers, freed the fort from waste, debris, and overgrowth, turning it into a beautiful attraction. Since 1996, the Defense Line of Amsterdam has been officially recognized as a World Heritage Site.

Around 80 volunteers ensure that Pampus can continue to be visited by interested parties from April to the end of October, with 20 of them being hosts or hostesses.