Heritage Day: Sports and Games at the Trench of Death - 27/04/2025

The Belgian army dug the Trench of Death, an impressive First World War trench close to the Yser, in 1915. It was designed as an ‘approach trench’ in the direction of the German positions.

The German troops did the same, and after heavy fighting both armies came to be separated by a mere strip of water. Concrete bunkers, trenches and firing positions created a dangerous stalemate that lasted for three long years.

Today, the Trench of Death is a unique historical site, where you can almost literally follow in the footsteps of the Belgian soldiers who experienced the hell of ’14-’18. The visitors centre brings their stories to life through interactive apps, photos, film footage and more than a hundred unique and authentic objects.

The horrors of the First World War and the Trench of Death definitely do impress, but did you know that R&R was not entirely forgotten? What games did the soldiers play? How did they organize competitions and what did sports mean for their morale? Participate in old-fashioned games such as sack race runs, tug-of-war and period board games. Or try your luck at the gambling games the soldiers played. Learn all about the role of sports and games at the front and put your own skills to the test!

On Heritage Day the Trench of Death comes back to life, as Belgian and German re-enactors will pitch their tents on site and invite you to actively participate! Step back in time on Heritage Day and discover how soldiers at the 14-18 front relaxed through sports and games!