Trench Meerdijk

The Meerdijk Loopgraaf near Asperen is a reconstructed part of the New Dutch Waterline, a defense line that protected the Netherlands from enemy invasions.

Characteristics of the trench
The trench along the Meerdijk is a reconstructed segment that gives visitors insight into the military strategies of the First World War. The system of trenches was intended to protect soldiers from enemy fire and to enable them to move quickly between defense points. The trench near Asperen is accessible to walkers and cyclists and is part of a walking route along the New Dutch Waterline.

Visit and information
The Meerdijk Loopgraaf and the surrounding group shelters can be visited via walking and cycling routes that have been set out along the New Dutch Waterline. Information panels along the route provide background information about the history and function of the defenses. For specific opening hours and events, such as the annual Bunker Day, please visit the official websites of the Stichting Bunkerbehoud Dordrecht and the New Dutch Waterline.

A trench is a dug ditch that serves as protection for soldiers during war. They were mainly used in the First World War and also in defense lines such as the New Dutch Waterline.

What is the purpose of a trench?
Protection: Trenches offer protection against enemy gunfire and artillery. Soldiers could take shelter in them and thus be much safer at the front.

Mobility: They connect different defense points with each other, allowing soldiers to move between these points in relative safety.

Shelter and storage: In addition to protection, trenches are also places where weapons, ammunition and food could be stored, and where soldiers could rest.

How is a trench constructed?
Earth bank: There is often a raised bank at the front to provide extra protection.

Depth: Trenches are deep enough to be able to stand or sit in completely, so that soldiers are barely visible to the enemy.

Drainage: There are usually provisions to drain water, so that the trench does not flood.

Communication corridors: Connections between main trenches and smaller corridors provide freedom of movement and rapid communication.

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Source

• Text: RJArmy.nl
• Photos: RJArmy.nl (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6), RJArmy.nl (7)