Hill 60, Ypres

Hill 60, located in the historic city of Ypres, Belgium, is a poignant memorial site that bears witness to the brutal trench warfare of World War I. This modest hill, named for its height in meters above sea level, became the stage for intense military conflict due to its strategic vantage point over the surrounding flat landscape.

The site at Hill 60 is steeped in history; it was the scene of prolonged and fierce fighting throughout the war. The British and German armies both understood the tactical advantage of controlling the hill, leading to a series of bloody engagements that included mining and counter-mining operations. In April and May 1915, Hill 60 was the site of devastating gas attacks, marking some of the earliest uses of chemical warfare.

Today, Hill 60 serves as a memorial to those who lost their lives in these battles. Visitors to the site will find a preserved battlefield with original trenches, craters from mines and artillery shells, and several monuments and plaques commemorating the soldiers who fought there. One notable feature is the 60th Division Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers of the London Division who recaptured Hill 60 in 1917.

The site also hosts the Hill 60 New Zealand Memorial, a tribute to the New Zealand Tunnelling Company, which took part in the mining operations beneath the hill. Their work was critical to undermining enemy positions and contributed to the strategic efforts during the war.

Hill 60 remains a stark reminder of the war's impact on the landscape and the lives of countless soldiers. It is a place of reflection and remembrance, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to pay their respects and learn about the history of World War I.