Fort Dirksz Admiraal was built in 1812-1813 as the middle fort in the Stelling van Den Helder. The fort is named after the former mayor of Monnickendam, Cornelis Dirkszoon, who was admiral of the North Holland fleet during the Eighty Years' War. In an advanced position, in what was then still a swamp area, both Fort Oostoever and Fort Erfprins could be protected from this fort.
During the Second World War, the German occupier made use of the fort by building an anti-aircraft battery on it. This is still completely present. The fort was used by the Royal Netherlands Army during the Cold War.
Part of the fort is managed by the Stelling Den Helder Foundation. You can visit the German bunkers and a tour of the fort is also possible.