Belfort Vossenberg - Meijel

Standing next to the 22-metre-high belfry, you are on historic ground. More than 75 years ago, soldiers fought here for the freedom of the whole of the Netherlands. This is still visible in the six bunkers next to the tower, also known as casemates, which are part of the Peel defence line. A path leads from the tower, which was not only the escape route from Meijel to Brabant, but also essential for peat extraction in the Peel. Go on a voyage of discovery and learn more about the history of this special part of the Peel.

S-Kazemat
Hidden among the vegetation are the casemates of the S-series. Due to their characteristic shape, they are also called porcupines or spider heads. Step inside and experience how the soldiers sought cover here and also used their machine guns to protect the adjacent casemates from the enemy.

The Belfry
Climb the tower and travel through the four themes that characterise the surrounding area: peat extraction, nature, war and art. As you climb, feel the tension of how the farmers cut the turf on the tenth and eleventh bays. Discover the nature of the Peel and its more than two hundred species of birds, and experience the ‘Aktion im Moor’ at a height of 22 metres. Climbing the Belfort is the highlight of a visit to the Peel, both literally and figuratively.

G-Casemate
This square casemate with rounded corners is one of the few that were built. Although it was badly damaged during the war, it was not damaged by enemy fire. What is left of it tells a compelling story. Marvel at the fascinating history of this ruin and discover the enormous cost of defending the country, where men and equipment fought the enemy with everything they had. Prepare yourself, because the stories are gripping.

B-Casemate
This type of casemate is more expensive, but offers better protection thanks to the ‘nose’ on the front side. Read the stories behind this casemate, discover the function of the ‘nose’ and learn how heavy machine guns tried to defend this spot until the end of the battle.

Photo: ©Brabant Partners