Groningen: Battlefield tour｜Netherlands

April 13, 1945 marked a decisive moment in the history of the city of Groningen. On that day, soldiers of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division began the liberation of the city. Despite the fanatical German defense of the so-called Festung Holland, commanded by General Johannes Blaskowitz, Groningen became the scene of an intense and bitter urban battle that lasted four days. Street by street, alley by alley, and house by house had to be cleared under heavy fire.

The impact of the fighting was devastating. The Grote Markt, once the vibrant heart of the city, was left in ruins, and more than 270 buildings were destroyed. On Monday, April 16, 1945, the German commander finally surrendered, bringing the Battle of Groningen to an end.
The price of liberation, however, was high. Forty-three Canadian soldiers and 110 civilians lost their lives during these days of fighting.

During this Battlefield Tour, we follow in the footsteps of the Canadian soldiers. We trace their advance toward the Zuiderdiep and the Grote Markt, concluding at the former State Archives in the Sint Jansstraat, where German forces were ultimately surrounded.

Step back in time and relive the dramatic days of April 1945, when Groningen was scarred by fierce fighting between Canadian and German troops. Led by expert battlefield guide Joël Stoppels, you will explore the very locations where history unfolded and where tangible traces of the past can still be found today. Using authentic photographs and original objects from the period, this tour brings the story of Groningen’s liberation vividly to life.