The Netherlands
Gelderland
The Dutch province of Gelderland became the scene of heavy fighting during WWII with Operation Market Garden and Operation Veritable. In September 1944, the Allies attempted to capture bridges over several rivers to ensure a swift advance towards Germany, but Operation Market Garden failed as the bridge at Arnhem was ‘a bridge too far’ and could not be taken. (photo: Cees Beumer)
Explore the Airborne Museum ‘Hartenstein’ in Oosterbeek to recall this chapter of history and witness a phenomenal view of the world-famous John Frost Bridge in Arnhem. Head to Nijmegen, the oldest city of the Netherlands, to experience the Sunset March – a daily tribute to the Allied soldiers who fought for the liberation of the country. Recall the key-events of the liberation of the Netherlands at the Freedom Museum in Groesbeek. Find in the city of Wageningen a unique hotel – Hotel De Wereld – where the capitulation of German troops in the Netherlands was signed on May 5, 1945.
With the Freedom in Gelderland programme, we want to make post-war generations aware of the value of freedom. We are increasingly distant from the Second World War. Only the stories, photos, films and only a few witnesses left bring us back to the events of those days. It remains important for new generations to know about it.
