Even before the war, Jewish people from Germany were welcomed here. And when the war really broke out in 1940, Aalten's population grew even faster. Disproportionately fast even. Because while in the rest of the Netherlands an average of 5% of the population was in hiding, in Aalten the figure was four times as high: for every five inhabitants there is one person in hiding!
Walking in the Achterhoek
A long-distance trail runs through the Achterhoek, connecting to the international route. This trail starts at the German border, passing through ’s-Heerenberg on its way to Vorden. There, the route splits towards Gorssel (with a connection to Zwolle) and Holten (with a connection to Groningen). In addition to this trail, there is a regional trail — a circular walk through the Achterhoek — as well as several themed walks. The Second World War left indelible traces in the Achterhoek. Each trace tells its own story — sometimes big, sometimes small. The leading roles belong to the victims and heroes of that time. Along various impressive routes, you will get to know the people and their stories.
