The Province of Zuid-Holland

The “Beer” (weir) in the small fortress town of Nieuwpoort to bridge the difference in the water level of the Lek river during high- and low tide with the level in the lower lying polders. Because the wall had steep sides (called “donkey's back”) combined with the round “monniken” (literally monks) it would be impossible for attackers to walk along it - Nieuwpoort suffered greatly from sieges and attacks after it was founded in the 13th century. The dyke against the wall was constructed mid-19th century.