Ramskapelle Station

The small station at Ramskapelle was used as an observation post during the war. Thanks to the use of concrete reinforcing, it managed to survive the almost constant bombardments. There was heavy fighting - often hand-to hand - at Ramskapelle until 31 October 1914. By this time, the flood waters had already risen to a considerable level, and the Germans - who had been using the high ground around the mill as a launching-pad for their attacks - decided to withdraw to the other side of the water.

From this date onwards, the raised railway embankment - or Frontzate - formed the Belgian Army's first line of defence.

Here you can find a plaque honouring the memory of the 14th Line Regiment and another commemorating a company of Zouaves (French colonial troops from the Magreb), who suffered heavy losses in an attempt to storm the windmill.

The monument with the three half-moons is a reminder of the Christmas truce of 1914, which took place at various points along the front. However, it is unlikely that truces of this kind were held here, in view of the large stretch of water separating the opposing trenches.

Vl. Toeristisch bezienswaardigheden