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German Command Bunker: A Relic of WWI

Explore a remarkably preserved German command post from World War I in Zonnebeke, offering a unique glimpse into military strategy and history.

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The German Command Bunker in Zonnebeke, Belgium, stands as a well-preserved testament to World War I. Built in 1916 by German pioneer units, this bunker served as a crucial command post, offering a strategic advantage during the war. Today, visitors can explore its intricate architecture and gain insight into the lives of the soldiers who once occupied it.

A brief summary to German Command Bunker

  • Belgium, Gaverstraat 2, Zonnebeke, Zandvoorde, 8980, BE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the bunker may be uneven.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding area, which is rich in WWI history and memorials.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Ypres, take bus line 90 towards Roeselare. The bus departs from Ieper Markt perron 1 and arrives at Zonnebeke Dorp. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes, and the bus runs every 30 minutes. From the Zonnebeke Dorp bus stop, the bunker is a short walk away. A single bus fare costs around €3.

  • Car

    From Ypres, follow the N37 route south towards Komenstraat. Zonnebeke is approximately 7 kilometers from Ypres. In Zonnebeke, turn onto Gaverstraat. A small parking area is available near the bunker. Parking is free. From Kortrijk, take the A19 towards Ypres, then exit 4 towards Zonnebeke. Follow Ieperstraat and turn right onto Berten Pilstraat, where you can find parking. Note that Car Park 1 is a blue zone with a maximum parking time of 3 hours with a parking disc.

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Discover more about German Command Bunker

Nestled in the rolling landscape of Zonnebeke, the German Command Bunker offers a unique glimpse into the strategic military operations of World War I. Constructed in 1916 by specially trained German pioneer units, the 'Armierungsbataillone', the bunker provided a secure and concealed command center for the German army. The bunker's design, built into a slope and covered with earth, provided excellent observation of the surrounding area while remaining nearly invisible to the enemy. Visitors can explore the bunker's well-preserved structure, including its two entrances, six interior chambers, and the central walled area. The walls, originally clad in wood, now reveal the concrete construction techniques of the era. Above the entrance, the year of construction and the unit's credentials are still visible. The surrounding area has been re-landscaped to reflect its 1918 appearance, offering a better understanding of the bunker's strategic importance. Until the liberation offensive in 1918, the bunker remained behind German lines, serving as the headquarters for the Zandvoorde Division. After the war, it was left abandoned until the municipality of Zonnebeke renovated it in 1987, making it accessible to the public. Today, the German Command Bunker stands as a protected monument, inviting visitors to reflect on the history and sacrifices of the Great War.

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