Fietstour Meidagen 1940

May Days 1940

In Rotterdam from 10 to 14 May 1940 there was a continuous battle for the city. An incredible, largely unknown story that precedes the devastating bombing. Rotterdam has been in the middle of the front line from the very beginning of the German invasion on May 10, 1940. Five long days of fighting rage in the streets, on the river and in the skies above the city. German and Dutch troops face each other along the Maas. The people of Rotterdam are caught between two fires.

Bike tour

During this bike tour, former soldier and military historian Wouter Hagemeijer from Battle for the Maas Bridges takes you through the battle and the confusion of these days.

The bike tour takes you past known and unknown locations of the battles between Dutch and German soldiers. We start at Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NOW with a short introduction to the situation in Rotterdam on the eve of the war. The route takes you to the Noordereiland via the Waalhaven and Afrikaanderplein. After lunch we enjoy a beautiful view of Rotterdam and the former battlefield on both banks of the Maas from the roof of the White House. This is followed by a visit to the Marine Museum where you will get a good idea of the uniforms, weapons and equipment of that time. Via Plein 1940 (Zadkine) you cycle back to Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NOW for a short tour and to undergo the Experience.