Pool of Peace, War memorial crater in Wijtschate, Belgium
The Pool of Peace is a water-filled crater in the Heuvelland landscape that marks the earth like a quiet scar. The basin spans roughly 130 meters across and descends about 12 meters, with accumulated water defining the site's character.
This crater formed on June 7, 1917, when British forces detonated underground explosives beneath German defensive lines during the Battle of Messines. The blast was part of a coordinated effort involving 19 simultaneous mine detonations across the region.
The name reflects the quiet water surface that developed over time, becoming a natural memorial space. Visitors experience a setting that speaks to loss and invites contemplation without need for formal structures.
The site is accessible via marked cycling paths that wind through the Heuvelland region. The routes are relatively flat and well-signposted, making it easy to visit alongside other nearby heritage locations.
This crater ranks as the largest result among 19 simultaneous mine explosions and remains the most substantial surviving crater from World War I in the area. Its size and collected water serve as a visual record of the force behind this historical moment.
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