Hill 80

Hill 80 is an archaeological site in Wijtschate containing well-preserved German World War I trenches positioned on a ridge overlooking the surrounding farmland. The location shows both the military structures and the natural advantages that made this position strategically important for defense and observation.

German troops fortified this ridge with trenches and bunkers starting in 1914, creating a defensive network that would hold for years. Archaeological work beginning in 2015 uncovered the original layout of these fortifications and revealed the conditions soldiers endured while stationed here.

The name Hill 80 comes from its elevation, and the site held strategic value for multiple armies throughout the conflict. Walking through today, visitors can observe how the trenches shaped the daily life of soldiers positioned here.

The site is accessible year-round with walking paths that guide visitors through the historic positions and excavation areas. Wear appropriate footwear since the ground is uneven, and spring or autumn visits offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring.

Excavations uncovered remarkably preserved personal items belonging to soldiers, including a sandbag that remained intact beneath timber fortifications for more than a century. These finds provide rare insight into the physical realities of trench warfare.