The Betuwe: September 18, 1944 - May 5, 1945
In this area between Arnhem and Nijmegen, fierce battles took place between the Allies and the Germans. A total of 16 different nationalities fought here. In this region, 132 aircraft crashed. The Betuwe had been transformed into a war zone. Due to all the wartime violence, 60,000 civilians were evacuated. This area between the rivers Rhine and Waal, up to the Opheusden - Dodewaard line, was given the name "Het Eiland" (The Island) by the Allies in September 1944.
The Betuwe War Museum "The Island" provides a comprehensive overview of this gripping history. The museum was opened in April 1999. On display are five dioramas that incorporate all 16 different nationalities. Weapons, photographic material, and many personal items complete the collection. Many items have been donated by veterans and residents of this area over a period of 45 years. Almost every object in the museum has its own story. A guide is available to provide you with a tour.
As an additional feature related to Betuwe's history, there is also a diorama depicting the Dutch army of May 1940 (Betuwe Line). The museum regularly hosts changing exhibitions as well.
