Highlight • Monument
Vinkt War Memorial
Cycling
3.6
(13)
Hiking
5.0
(4)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Tips
Geert Vergauwe
July 25, 2022
Cycling
The war memorial on Martelarenplein in Vinkt commemorates the Battle of Vinkt of 1940. On May 27, 1940, a total of 37 villagers were executed. One day after the massacre, the Belgian army surrendered.
Translated by
•
•
DirkWi
July 28, 2025
Hiking
In May 1940, the "Battle of Vinkt" took place, one of the most horrific episodes of the Belgian army's 18-day campaign against the German invaders.
During the early days of World War II, many people had fled from the major cities to the countryside. The Belgian army was positioned behind the Lys River and the Schipdonk Canal, where it attempted to halt the German advance. On the Lys front, the Ardennes Hunters (Jagers Ardenne) effectively halted the German advance, but this had serious consequences for Vinkt.
During the early days of World War II, many people had fled from the major cities to the countryside. The Belgian army was positioned behind the Lys River and the Schipdonk Canal, where it attempted to halt the German advance. On the Lys front, the Ardennes Hunters (Jagers Ardenne) effectively halted the German advance, but this had serious consequences for Vinkt.
Translated by•
•DirkWi
July 28, 2025
Hiking
At the monument, the current city poet Jana Arns (although not a resident of Deinze, but of Moerbeke) wrote a rather raw poem, in which she plays with double meanings in her own unique way.
Translated by•
•
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Vinkt War Memorial
4.0
(2)
3
hikers
5.88km
01:30
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Easy
2
hikers
12.8km
03:15
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Moderate
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m