The Relief of Alkmaar

The Relief of Alkmaar refers to the successful defense and relief of the city of Alkmaar during the Eighty Years' War on October 8, 1573. 

Alkmaar was the first Dutch city to withstand a Spanish siege (from August 21 to October 8), led by the Duke of Alba. 

The citizens and beggars repelled the Spanish by breaching dikes and flooding the surrounding countryside, leading to the enemy's withdrawal. 

This event marked a turning point in the revolt against Spain and is celebrated annually in Alkmaar with festivities, parades, a sauerkraut meal (as a nod to the Relief of Leiden), and commemorations. 

It will have been 450 years since 2023.

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