Battle of Gijzenzele

Between May 20 and May 22, 1940, the Battle of Gijzenzele took place here. Both German and Belgian sides suffered many fatalities. The German artillery fire caused significant damage to buildings and fields. Among other things, the church was severely damaged. On May 21, as many as 28 Belgian soldiers lost their lives in Gijzenzele. On the last day, May 22, when the Belgian army withdrew, a large number of shells were used, resulting in several buildings going up in flames. Ultimately, the battle in Gijzenzele cost around 60 German soldiers their lives (other sources mention 125 casualties). This battle has, to this day, maintained a place in the local community, thanks in part to the Gijzels Genootschap of the Kerkuil. This organization has mapped out the ‘Half Moon Route’ along the important sites related to the Battle of Gijzenzele.

Pascal Brackman