Raversijde: Atlantikwall and Medieval History

The focus is on military heritage from the First and Second World Wars and the history of the former medieval fishing village; a signposted walking route and a nature play area complement these themes. Consider whether you want to devote your stay mainly to history or also include walking and nature. The historical attractions have different emphases: the Atlantikwall is about coastal defence during the Second World War, while Walraversyde ANNO 1465 is about a former medieval fishing village.

Atlantikwall and Coastal Defence

Atlantikwall Raversyde comprises more than sixty bunkers, open and underground passageways, observation posts and gun emplacements from the Second World War. At the entrance is a 75-metre-long coastal panorama featuring photographs from 1945. The Atlantikwall Raversyde site also includes Stephan Vanfleteren’s permanent photo exhibition, “Atlantic Wall”.

At Batterij Aachen, four gun emplacements and an observation bunker on either side are still visible. The interpretation at Batterij Aachen uses images, animations, concrete models and a 3D reconstruction to explain naval warfare and coastal defence. The surviving structures at Batterij Aachen give a complete picture of German coastal defence from 1914 to 1918. Batterij Saltzwedel-neu is considered one of Europe’s most significant museums specialising in military fortifications, thanks to its excellent state of preservation. Many of the bunkers at Batterij Saltzwedel-neu have been restored and refitted with authentic objects. Organised groups can take part in an educational programme offering an immersive tour through the passageways, bunkers and gun emplacements of Batterij Saltzwedel-neu from the Second World War.

Walraversyde and Royal Heritage

Walraversyde ANNO 1465 is a permanent exhibition about the former medieval fishing village of Walraversyde. It features authentic water pipes, daggers, a coin hoard and fishing equipment. The displays take different forms: the exhibition focuses on individual objects, while four authentic medieval fishermen’s houses can be seen outside.

The protected Raversijde Estate includes heritage from the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Paviljoen van Prins Karel. The Vlaamse Zaal is a museum about the royal family and Prince Karel. The interior of the Paviljoen van Prins Karel is furnished with original furniture and objects.

Walking Route and Nature Play Area

Speelbos Testerep is a nature play area with mysterious paths, an imposing throne, trench paths, a medieval shelter and mysterious wooden figures. A signposted Beaufort walking route also runs through Raversyde. The two attractions differ in form: one is a nature play area, the other a signposted walking route. Raversijde is also home to a wildlife rescue centre (V.O.C.) for birds and other animals.

Finding Your Way at the Atlantikwall

Behind the dune belt, a low-traffic road that is often car-free passes the entrance to Atlantikwall Raversyde. If this part of the cultural heritage is part of your visit, the road provides a clear landmark to help you find your way around.

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