In 1914, occupied Germany occupied Belgium, while the Netherlands remained neutral. The border residents, such as those of Hamont-Achel, had a hard time due to the construction of a hermetic barrier to the border. The German occupier wanted to prevent any contact with the free Netherlands and placed a deadly electrical barrier along the border for this purpose.

Since 2000, Hamont-Achel has had a reconstruction (adapted in 2015) of "Den droad" as it is popularly called. Alongside this reconstruction there are information boards that provide additional information about the original construction in 1916.

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An 🇧🇪

March 7, 2025

Hiking

This reconstruction of the 'Death Wire' gives an excellent impression of the impact of this German barrier during WWI on the area and its inhabitants. Along this reconstruction are information boards that provide walkers with additional information about the original construction in 1916, the many escape methods that were attempted from Belgium to the Netherlands, but also the dramatic stories that took place at the wire.

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Klaske Schep

November 4, 2024

Hiking

The Death Wire was an electric fence along the Belgian border during the First World War. It served as a deterrent for refugees and soldiers, with dangerous consequences for those who touched it. Today, you will find information panels where you can read more about this dark page in history.

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Informations

Elevation 30 m

Weather

Friday 6 February

12°C

3°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Location: Hamont-Achel, Maaseik, South Limburg, Flanders, Belgium

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The Wire of Death (De Doodendraad)

1. Valkenhorst Heath – Heather Landscape in De Malpie loop from Geldrop

2. Border Marker 175 loop from Budel

3. Lille–Hamont cycle path loop from Neerpelt

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