A L L T H E W A Y B A C K

The Chassé Barracks is the original main building of the sprawling military complex that was on the east side of the city. It was built in 1898-1899 and was supposed to have a military look with its corner turrets, battlements and imitation embrasures.

Breda has long been a garrison city. The Royal Military Academy and the many barracks around the city formed an important source of income for the local tradesmen. The barracks is named after General David Hendrik baron Chassé (1765-1849), who became best known for defending the citadel of Antwerp against the French in 1832. He eventually had to surrender the citadel. Chassé died in Breda in 1849 and was buried in the cemetery of Ginneken.

Modern concrete structures were used for the construction of the barracks. Initially, the building had gas lighting because Breda did not receive electricity until 1918.

In 1993 the barracks lost its military function.