WW II and Conflict Archaeology
Margraten, Eben Emael, Vroenhoven
The largest American war cemetery of Europe is located in Margraten. On the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial, 8301 soldiers are buried. This 26,5 ha large field is a small piece of American territory in the Netherlands. The history of this cemetery and the stories of the soldiers are told in this place. Walking between these graves, this place will leave an everlasting impression on its visitors.
The invincible fortress of Eben Emael became really famous trough history on May 10, 1940 when a small team of German paratroops took the control of the fort’s artillery in less than 15 minutes. Organization, innovation and risk taking were the keys to the German success. We will inform you about the secret German innovative plans and powerful weapons. Fort Eben Emael is a city of its own, but totally underground. Discover this fascinating site and its strange history.
In a very modern museum at Vroenhoven, located above the Albertcanal, the story of the region during WW II is told. With new multimedia and touch screens you will experience everyday life during this time of occupation.
Program
Guide: Jos Bazelmans
Date: 3 September
08.30 departure Maasboulevard (Hoeg Brök) – Margraten (10 km, 20 min)
09.00 arrival Margraten, American Cemetery
09.15 guided tour American Cemetery(1,5 uur)
11.00 arrival Margraten, Huis van de Burger
Welcome and speech Mayor with coffee/tea
12.00 (liberationroute, adoption of graves, the faces of Margraten)
12.00-13.00 lunch in Margraten
13.00 departure to Fort Eben Emael (16 km, 30 min)
13.30 visit and guided tour Fort
14.30 departure to Vroenhoven (5,6 km, 15 min)
14.45 arrival Vroenhoven De Brug + coffee/tea
15.30 guided tour Vroenhoven De Brug
16.30 drink at the Café De Brug
17.00 departure to Maastricht
17.20 arrival Maastricht