Netherlands: Fluweelengrot (Velvet Cave), Kasteelruïne (castle ruins) and the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial

Drawings on the walls of the caves

This is an interesting day trip that I was able to take with the kids, and given that it was February, I figured that for once caves would seem warm, as they are a constant 12 degrees (53.6).  These caves were carved out in the 11^th and 12^th centuries.  They were actually created by mining to build the castle (now in ruins above the caves).  They created a labyrinth of “escape” passages for those who needed to get out of the castle while it was under siege and then later for those who needed refuge. 

The people who needed refuge were Christians in the 18^th century (the French period) where a chapel was actually created and a minister lived there for years and then again during WWII and the German occupation.  Jews, locals and American troops all hid in these caves. 

It was during the French period that most of the drawings were created on the walls, they depict the history and people of Valkenburg.  Then again during WWII the American soldiers signed their names on the walls and many of them had their profiles drawn onto the walls.

Above the caves are the castle ruins.  The castle was destroyed on Dec. 10, 1672 by Stadtholder Willem III.  We wondered around seeing the great hall, chapel, dungeon and artillery room.  There are still ways to connect to the underground passages; however, they are not open to the public. 

For our afternoon we stopped at the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial.  There are 21 American cemeteries in Europe with 124,905 American soldiers laid to rest these beautifully and lovingly maintained places.  30,921 from World War I, and 93,234 from World War II.  More than

Netherlands American Cemetery

60% of those who lost their lives on the battlefield were sent home and there are still remains found in fields even today from all over the world.

The afternoon was well below freezing, but the snow and the crosses were so serene.  It created a real sense of peace and hope.  If you ever have a chance to go to an American cemetery here in Europe it will be a moving and compelling experience.  A reminder of the toll of war, but the hope that comes from these places is inspiring. 

I hope you enjoy the photos and that they inspire you to come and visit us, soon.