War Cemetery Brunssum, Hoensbroek Castle & More
Today was a busy day. After breakfast we took off to visit the Brunssum War Cemetery. 328 British soldiers are buried there. Only one has remained unidentified. We couldn't visit the Netherlands without paying our respects. So many of the fallen were between the ages of 18 and 26. It was sad to read the headstones with messages from their loved ones.
We then went to Hoensbroek Castle. It was owned by the Hoen family beginning in 1371. No kings lived in the castle. The title was that of a lord. It was interesting because the castle had artifacts from the family. Lots of stairs. I attempted the climb up to the top of the tower but stopped after 20 steep; winding narrow steps that I actually put hands on as I climbed. The stair well was only as wide as my shoulders. There was a light system that, when red, meant someone was either going up or coming down so you had to wait to use the stairs.
This was the stair well leading up to the tower.
Next stop was Drielandenpunt. Once you reach the top of the hill which we were able to drive up, we walked to a point where three different countries, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands all join together. We stood in three countries at one time.
We then went to Hoensbroek Castle. It was owned by the Hoen family beginning in 1371. No kings lived in the castle. The title was that of a lord. It was interesting because the castle had artifacts from the family. Lots of stairs. I attempted the climb up to the top of the tower but stopped after 20 steep; winding narrow steps that I actually put hands on as I climbed. The stair well was only as wide as my shoulders. There was a light system that, when red, meant someone was either going up or coming down so you had to wait to use the stairs.
Quite the modern bathroom in those days! Haha
This next picture was a joke because Heidi told us about a popular sport in Finland called Hobby Horse Racing. Check it out online.
Our last stop for the day was the Christmas market in Aachen. We decided to have an early dinner. It was delicious.
Heidi had a Gluhwein which is mulled wine also known as spiced wine. It is served hot. At Christmas markets, it is served in a boot mug or regular decorated mug with the year of the market. Different mugs are available from different kiosks. You pay a deposit for them. When you bring the mug back, you get your deposit back. If you decide to keep the mug, you can just take it with you. Many people collect them.
Here's Heidi with her Gluhwein. Say "Cheese!"
We had a great day visiting so many sights. We are so grateful to Heidi for making our visit perfect.
Steps today - 11,845
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