Fort Eben-Emael
With three levels, barracks for 1,200 soldiers, 17 bunkers and 5 km of underground tunnels, Fort Eben-Emael is an excellent example of how the technological advances of the German army far outpaced the outdated and no longer effective defensive approaches along the German border.
Fort Eben-Emael, constructed between 1932 and 1935, was one of the largest fortifications in Europe and was thought to be impregnable. The spectacular and innovative attack on the fortress by an elite unit of German paratroopers in 11 DFS 230 gliders on 10 May 1940 marked the world’s first-ever airborne attack and the tragic start of World War II for Western Europe.
Take a step back in time and visit the restored barracks, the museum, the immense system of galleries and the combat positions and then immerse yourself in the secret and innovative German plans for the attack on the fort.
Follow the museum guide through the maze of underground galleries to the command post and an artillery bunker. See the disastrous consequences of a new type of explosive (hollow charge), used for the first time in global military history during the attack on the fort.
Discover the huge roof with the bunkers and artillery cupolas. You will marvel at the 440-tonne cupola with a 360° firing arc and a range of up to 17 km. The two undamaged casemates, which can still be visited today, are each equipped with three rapid-fire 75mm guns. One of only three known German DFS 230 gliders is displayed.
Groups
Visit always with a guide. Specific price for participants and choice of duration of the visit and places to visit, depending on the duration (see above). Personal welcome by the guide at the entrance of the fort.
Schools
Visit always with a guide. Specific price for participants and choice of duration of the visit and places to visit, depending on the duration (see above). Personal welcome by the guide at the entrance of the fort.
Companies
Possibility of tailor-made, themed or VIP visits (see above). Possibility to use a cafeteria and/or a meeting room and/or a multimedia room (audio, LED projector).
Families
Family & Friends’ tour. Visit with private guide and only for the family, without other participants. Low prices. Choice of tour type: 1.5, 2.5 or 3.5 hours. Theme tour of 4.5 hours. (see above)
Seniors
Reduced price : – 2,- € on the adult rate. For groups there is a minimum starting price.
People with specific needs
Reduced entrance fee : 4,- €. Several places and visits are not accessible for PRM
Practical information
Fort Eben-Emael
Rue du Fort - 4690 Eben-Emael (Bassenge)
Specific offers
- Wallonie Destination Qualité
- Accessible to bicycles
