The Kornwerderzand position is still an original battlefield from the Second World War. Kazemattenmuseum tells the story of 225 soldiers who managed to stop the German army in May 1940. A story of intransigence, clever tactics and courage. The location, the collection and the stories in image and sound make a visit to this museum a unique experience.
The famous casemates (fortified gun emplacements) are located on Kornwerderzand near the Afsluitdijk, a few kilometers off the Frisian coast. It is the only place in Europe at which the German offensive in May 1940 was hindered. A limited force of just 225 Dutch soldiers managed to hold back the 15.000 advancing German troops. Museum volunteers are available to explain all about this important time in local history.
In total, the complex has 17 Dutch casemates and a number of German bunkers. You can visit 5 casemates and 1 bunker here, including a kitchen and anti-aircraft depot casemate. All have a museum function and tell the story in chronological order about the construction of the Afsluitdijk and its reasons, the battle of the Afsluitdijk in May 1940, the German occupation, the liberation and the Cold War. It is completely furnished as it looked at that time. The complete equipment, including the urinals, weapons and straw mattresses are original. These original elements and story make this a special location to visit and will certainly leave an impression.
Please note!: The museum is unfortunately not suitable for visitors with walking difficulties.
