Grebbesluis

For centuries, mysterious defensive structures have been found around Renswoude. Shrouded in green, the dikes, sluices, and fortifications waited for the moments when the interests of the nation would bring them to life. Until 1951, the military structure of the Grebbelinie was one of the most important defense lines in the Netherlands. In peacetime, this waterline was virtually invisible, but when the sluices at the Grebbe near Rhenen were opened, an impressive body of water was created in the Gelderse Valley, an inundation that extended to Spakenburg. The small dikes had to prevent the water from flowing away to lower parts of the Valley. The fact that so many earthen fortifications are located in the municipality of Renswoude is no coincidence. They were mainly intended to block the high and dry access over Emmikhuizerberg. Important examples of fortifications within the municipal boundaries are the Line of Juffrouwwijk, the Battery on the Schalmdijk, the Work at the Engelaar, and the largest defensive structure of the line, the Fort at the Buursteeg. Although the earthen structures were built in the 18th century, the concrete casemates and tank obstacles remind us of the battles that took place in the municipality of Renswoude during the May days of 1940. Three times the line served its purpose: in 1795, 1940, and 1945, soldiers occupied the earthen ramparts to dig in and set up artillery. As the last inundation dried up, the future of the Grebbelinie began as green heritage, where beautiful walking and cycling tours can be made. Since 2011, the Grebbelinie has been a national monument. The fully restored Fort at the Buursteeg is definitely worth a visit. The fort is developing into the central visitor center of the Grebbelinie, an ideal starting point to further explore the line.

routeburo