Asparagus barrier Berthumspolder

In the advance towards the Second World War, the Netherlands had various types of barriers. The most commonly built barrier was the Asparagus Barrier. This barrier consisted of a concrete foundation into which asparagus had been inserted. A second barrier was the dragon's teeth barrier, made entirely of concrete. The third jumps were the tetrahedra. These were pyramid-shaped concrete blocks that could easily be closed or blocked. The purpose of all these barriers was to close off roads, railways, dikes, bridges and all other strategic points. The Dutch defense was largely based on water. The rivers in our country are a natural obstacle that is somewhat easy to defend. Inundations formed a major part of the defense strategy from the 16th century, but there were also many bridges, roads, dikes and railways that formed an open connection. Being able to close or block these was therefore essential. Hundreds of barriers were built before the Second World War, many of which are still partially present. However, the largest part consists of the concrete foundations from which the asparagus have been removed and concealed under the new asphalt. Only in a few cases did the entire barrier survive the wrecking ball, which was usually the reason that it was not in the way. Of course, the whole purpose of a barrier was to get in the way, so the fact that barriers have been preserved intact at all can be called a small miracle.

Nice view and nice road alongside car road. Two way bike lane.