Grebbe Line

The Grebbe Line (Dutch: Grebbelinie) was a Dutch defence line in the central part of the country. The Grebbe Line extended from the Grebbeberg, near Rhenen, to the IJsselmeer. The line was based on inundation and was first established in 1745. In the 19th century, the line lost its strategic significance and a large part of the fortifications was decommissioned in 1926.

In 1939, the disused line was once again fortified against a possible German attack on the Netherlands. The line became strategically important because it guarded the approach to the heartland of the Netherlands, including the major cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht. The old fortifications were extended with a series of small bunkers, trenches and obstacles.

During the German invasion of the Netherlands, the Grebbe Line played a significant role. On 10 May 1940, German forces launched their assault on the Netherlands as part of their broader offensive in Western Europe. The Grebbe Line became one of the focal points of the Dutch defense. Fierce fighting took place, particularly around the area of the Grebbeberg. The fall of the Grebbeberg on 13 May 1940 was a major setback to the Dutch. Defeat meant the collapse of the entire Grebbe line and forced the Dutch army to a full retreat to the New Dutch Water Line.

The Dutch army surrendered on 14 May 1940 after the Bombardment of Rotterdam.