Arnhem War Museum 40-45, Arnhem (must see)

The Arnhem War Museum 40-45 offers a focused and personal look at the turbulent years of the Second World War, presenting the conflict through objects, stories, and environments that reflect daily life under occupation. Located in a former school building on Kemperbergerweg, the museum was created by local collector Raymond H. van der Wiel, whose extensive private collection forms the heart of the exhibition. His goal was to preserve authentic wartime materials—ranging from military equipment to household items—so visitors can understand how the war shaped Arnhem and the surrounding region.

Inside, the museum features carefully arranged displays that highlight both the military and civilian experiences of the war. Rooms reconstructed with period furnishings evoke life in Dutch homes during the occupation, while uniforms, weapons, vehicles, and communication devices provide insight into the operations of various forces active in the area. The collection also includes items connected to the Battle of Arnhem, bringing one of the most significant events in local history into clearer focus. In contrast to larger national institutions, the museum maintains a deliberately intimate scale, allowing visitors to move closely among original artefacts and absorb the details that defined everyday survival.

A stop here adds depth to any visit to Arnhem, especially for travellers exploring sites such as the John Frost Bridge or the Airborne Museum at Oosterbeek. The Arnhem War Museum 40-45 complements these landmarks by offering a grounded and direct encounter with authentic materials from the period, inviting reflection on both the hardship and resilience that marked the city’s wartime experience.