Martin tower Liberation routesThe Martinus tower in the small town of Gennep is a permanent reminder of WW2 and lets us know that peace and freedom cannot be taken for granted. It is the only tower on the Meuse River from Mook to Roermond that survived the war. When retreating behind the Meuse, the Wehrmacht blew up the church towers on the left bank of the Meuse and placed lookouts in the towers on the right bank of the Meuse. These towers were then smashed by Allied artillery. All but one: the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.liberationroute.com/pois/787/martinus-tower">Gennep's Martinus tower</a>.The tower was on the front line from September 1944 to February 1945. Had one been in the spire in September 1944, one would have seen thousands of paratroopers and hundreds of Gliders land over neighbouring Groesbeek as part of Operation Market Garden. On 8 February, the front moved again. More than 1,000 guns shelled the neighbouring Reichswald forest and one could have watched from the tower as a roller of steel and fire swept across the great forest. Operation Veritable, the last major battle on the western front, had begun.Today, the Martinus Tower is a visitor centre with many reminders of this time. In particular, the Martinus Tower Liberation Routes, with starting and finishing points at the Martinus Tower, show the numerous traces of the tough battle in the region. The routes include the largest and second largest war museums in the Netherlands (Overloon and Groesbeek). The British Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery and Kriegsgräberstätte Donsbrügen, among others, are located in and near the Reichswald. The routes pass numerous monuments and ruins and 14 audio spots/listening boulders tell the special stories at these locations.The 8 Martinustoren Liberation Routes can be found on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://martinustoren.nl/en/liberation-route">Martinustoren website</a>. On the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.liberationroute.com/themed-routes/12/gennep-and-the-price-of-freedom">Liberation Route website</a>, one can find another special route: Gennep and the price of freedom.The routes go through 4 beautiful Natura 2000 landscapes: the St Jansberg, the Reichswald, the Maasduinen and the Maasheggen.Entry to the Martinustoren visitor centre is free.&nbsp;Gennep's Martinus tower<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.liberationroute.com/pois/787/martinus-tower">https://www.liberationroute.com/pois/787/martinus-tower</a>Martin tower Liberation routes<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://martinustoren.nl/en/liberation-route">https://martinustoren.nl/en/liberation-route</a>Gennep and the price of freedom<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.liberationroute.com/themed-routes/12/gennep-and-the-price-of-freedom">https://www.liberationroute.com/themed-routes/12/gennep-and-the-price-of-freedom</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Netherlands

Martin tower Liberation routes

Operatie Anger begon met een verwoestende artilleriebeschieting die grote schade aanrichtte in de gehavende stad. Na de beschietingen staken de geallieerde militairen de IJssel over en begonnen ze Arnhem stukje bij beetje te veroveren. Hoewel het Duitse leger zo goed als verslagen was, werd er op meerdere plekken nog altijd hard gevochten.&nbsp;Na twee dagen van beschietingen en straatgevechten werd Arnhem bevrijd. Vanwege de evacuatie van de bevolking in september 1944 waren er amper mensen aanwezig om de bevrijding te vieren. Inwoners die er nog wel waren wisten dat ze voor een enorme opgave stonden om de stad opnieuw op te bouwen.

Operation Anger: de tweede Slag om Arnhem

<h5 style="text-align: start">2 mei tot en met 30 november 2025</h5>De tijdelijke tentoonstelling Inheemse Bevrijders toont de verhalen van de Native American, Canadian First Nation en Métis soldaten die in 1944 en 1945 deelnamen aan de bevrijding van Nederland. Zij meldden zich in grote aantallen als vrijwilligers tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog en waren betrokken bij ieder deel van de bevrijding van Nederland, toch zijn hun verhalen tot op heden nauwelijks verteld. De expositie Inheemse Bevrijders brengt hun ervaringen tot leven door middel van persoonlijke verhalen, objecten en unieke interviews. Deze productie van dr. Mathilde Roza van de Radboud Universiteit, met steun van het Vrijheidsmuseum, is te zien van 2 mei t/m 30 november.

Inheemse Bevrijders

Half-marathon across both banks of the Meuse between the bridges at Grave and Heumen, which were of great importance during World War II. Entry fee: €15.00.

Bridge2Bridgerun

The visit offers insight into the bunker's historical significance and military function. Walking through the dark, atmospheric tunnels, you’ll learn about the bunker's role in defending the Atlantic Wall during the war and its connections to the fierce battles of Normandy, fought less than 20 miles away.You will get access to a range of original World War Two artefacts and weapons, where guests can touch and interact with the past. One of the highlights is the opportunity to climb aboard an authentic World War Two GMC truck, sitting on the benches just as soldiers once did.The visit lasts just under one hour, providing a detailed and hands-on experience of this fascinating piece of history. With small group sizes, the experience feels personal and intimate, offering an unforgettable journey through one of Jersey's most important defensive positions of WWII. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, St. Catherine's Bunker offers an authentic and hands-on encounter with the past.<ul><li>Weekends with hourly start times from 10:15&nbsp;</li><li>Small group sizes per opening time slot</li><li>Bookings are only accepted online - Book early to avoid disappointment</li><li>Profits from sales are invested back into the restoration of this site and its upkeep&nbsp;</li></ul>

Jersey

St. Catherine's Bunker Tours

​As the sun sets, your expert guide will lead you through a carefully curated route that can be fully customized to your interests. Discover the eerie remnants of fortified bunkers, command posts, and underground tunnels that are typically closed to the public. This rare opportunity allows you to delve deep into the stories and secrets of wartime strategies while experiencing the haunting atmosphere of these historical sites under the moonlight.During the tour, clients will also have the opportunity to handle safe, authentic World War II weapons and artefacts. Our tour perfectly complements understanding the history of the D-Day invasion and the battle of Normandy, which unfolded less than 20 miles away.Rated five stars on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="wixui-rich-text__text" href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186230-d9710211-Reviews-Jersey_War_Tours-Jersey_Channel_Islands.html">TripAdvisor</a>, our tour not only promises a fascinating glimpse into the past but also emphasizes safety and comfort. Each location has been selected for its historical significance and unique character, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique outing, our bunkers at night tour offers an immersive experience that brings history to life in a way few ever get to witness. Join us for an unforgettable night as we uncover the shadows of history together.<ul><li>This private tour is available in the evenings from 18:30 - 21:00, Monday through Friday.</li><li>£120 for up to 4 people visiting multiple bunkers.&nbsp;</li><li>Returning guests can also request a custom tour route to avoid duplication.&nbsp;</li><li>​Tour profits are invested in WW2 research, preservation and education.</li><li>​Bookings are only accepted online - book early to avoid disappointment.</li></ul>Please visit our website for more information about this tour and available dates.

Bunkers at Night Tour

Discover History Like Never Before at the Channel Islands Military Museum!Step into the past and uncover the incredible stories of courage, resilience, and survival at the Channel Islands Military Museum in Jersey! Housed in a beautifully preserved German bunker from WWII, this one-of-a-kind museum offers an immersive experience that brings history to life.Explore Authentic Artifacts | Get up close and personal with rare memorabilia, from uniforms and weapons to personal diaries and photographs. Each item tells a story of life during wartime, shedding light on both soldiers and civilians.Experience the Occupation Era | Jersey was the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by German forces during WWII. Walk through the museum’s evocative displays to feel what it was like to live through this pivotal moment in history.Uncover Hidden Stories | Discover untold tales of bravery, ingenuity, and resistance. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, the museum offers fascinating insights that will stay with you long after your visit.Step Inside a Genuine WWII Bunker | Not just a museum—this is a piece of history itself! Experience the atmosphere of an authentic German bunker, perfectly preserved to give you a glimpse into the past.Perfect for All Ages | Whether you're on a family trip, a school excursion, or an individual adventure, the Channel Islands Military Museum is an unforgettable journey for everyone.Plan Your Visit Today! 📍 Location: St. Ouen’s Bay, Jersey 🕒 Open: January to April = 10am - 1pm on Sundays | April to October = 10am - 5pm daily 🎟️ Tickets: Affordable prices for individuals, families, and groupsDon’t miss the chance to step back in time and experience history like never before. Visit the Channel Islands Military Museum—where every artifact, every story, and every wall whispers the legacy of those who lived through history.

Channel Island Military Museum

Sport was in het concentratiekamp vaak een manier om discipline af te dwingen en om te straffen. Bij deze vorm van sport, later pseudosport genoemd, dwongen de nazi’s de gevangenen om uitputtende oefeningen te doen in combinatie met drillen en zingen.Maar sport had ook een tegenovergestelde invulling in het kamp. De gevangenen speelden sporten om te ontsnappen aan de gruwelijke realiteit en om de tijd te doden na lange dagen van dwangarbeid.Onder de gevangenen bevonden zich ook vooroorlogse sporters; Olympiërs en nationale kampioenen die records vestigden voordat ze werden gedeporteerd. Hun dromen werden abrupt afgenomen.‘Sport en sporters in KL Auschwitz’ onthult deze tragische realiteit, maar benadrukt ook de ongelooflijke kracht, creativiteit en het doorzettingsvermogen van de gedeporteerden. Brieven, foto’s en getuigenissen vertellen de indrukwekkende verhalen van sport en sporters in het Duitse nazi-concentratie- en vernietigingskamp Auschwitz.De tentoonstelling benadrukt dat sport niet alleen gaat over fysieke kracht, maar ook over innerlijke kracht en doorzettingsvermogen. De verhalen over sport en sporters in extreme omstandigheden weten te raken en te inspireren.

Belgium 

Tijdelijke tentoonstelling: ‘Sport en sporters in KL Auschwitz’

As you journey through the winding passages, you’ll be transported to a time of resilience and survival, where the bravery of the islanders is brought to life through powerful exhibits and immersive storytelling. Stand where history was made and explore the tunnels that stretch over 1,000 meters, an eerie yet fascinating reminder of wartime struggles.<ul><li>Feel the Past Come Alive: Walk through life-sized exhibits that capture the occupation’s harsh realities and the hope that endured.</li><li>Go Beyond the Walls: Learn personal stories of hardship and heroism, from islanders and workers whose lives were changed forever.</li><li>Experience the Unimaginable: See artifacts, propaganda, and military equipment that paint a vivid picture of life under German rule.</li></ul>Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a powerful experience, the Jersey War Tunnels will captivate your heart and mind.Dive deep into the mysteries of World War II with 'Operation Constellation' and 'Prison Break'. Can you crack codes, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets to escape in time? Gather your team and embark on an unforgettable adventure where history meets adrenaline at Jersey War Tunnels Escape Rooms.Don’t just read about history—step inside it.

Jersey War Tunnels

This tour offers an authentic and thoughtful journey through that remarkable period. You'll gain a deeper understanding of both the military side of the occupation and the daily struggles, ingenuity, and strength of the islanders who lived through it. Dispelling sensationalist myths, it reveals the human story behind the history books.What makes this experience truly unique is that it’s personal. Half of my family remained on the island throughout those difficult years, while the other half, part of a military family stationed here, was evacuated in 1940. They were joyfully reunited after the war. I’ll share their rare and poignant stories with you as we explore the places that shaped their lives.Every tour is private and customized just for you—offering a memorable, insightful, and heartfelt journey into Jersey’s past. Let me guide you through this compelling chapter of history, where courage and hope prevailed.

1940 - 1945: Occupation to Liberation

Découvrez les récits des hommes de la 12e Division d’Infanterie Motorisée (DIM) qui seront faits prisonniers ou périront lors d’une mission cruciale, pour permettre à des dizaines de milliers de soldats de s’échapper de la poche de Dunkerque.À travers une narration immersive, le Général Janssen et ses hommes partagent leurs souvenirs. Chaque portrait raconte une histoire de bravoure, de sacrifice et d’engagement. Venez rendre hommage à ces héros et comprendre l’impact de leur dévouement sur notre histoire.Du 4 mars jusqu’au 31 octobre 2025, les visiteurs auront l’opportunité de plonger dans l’histoire de l’Opération Dynamo, 85 ans après l’événement.Organisée en partenariat avec l’association “A l’assaut des mémoires”, cette exposition unique mettra en valeur l’histoire du Fort et de son territoire grâce aux hommes ayant combattu lors du plus grand rembarquement de l’histoire.

France

La Division Janssen – Des hommes sacrifiés

With “On Displaying Violence: First Exhibitions on the Nazi Occupation in Europe, 1945–1948” (24 May–23 November 2025), the Deutsches Historisches Museum traces for the first time the history of this pan-European phenomenon, using the examples of early exhibitions in London, Paris, Warsaw, Liberec and Bergen-Belsen. The DHM exhibition is presented in cooperation with the Documentation Centre “German Occupation of Europe in the Second World War”. It is the view of the project that a joint European remembrance, and thus a joint European future, depends to a great degree on the shared knowledge of the history of the German occupation. &nbsp;&nbsp;The exhibition focuses on the different forms and presentations with which the exhibition organisers – most of them victims of Nazi persecution and Holocaust survivors – took up the themes of violence, resistance and perpetrators, as well as the loss of cultural heritage. This throws light on the different ideas about the future that were reflected in the early exhibitions. Rooted in the respective local and national contexts, the different visual languages of the time are analysed and the sources compared. The motivation of the participants and the effect of the exhibitions are examined, some of which travelled throughout Europe. Original objects, photographs, films, documents, artworks and multimedia presentations give the visitors a greater understanding of the challenges and backgrounds of this “first look back.” &nbsp;

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