Cold War Prelude - Occupation Of Bornholm

OVERVIEW

Explore the town of Ronne and discover how the sunny Danish island of Bornholm suffered a uniquely dark chapter immediately after World War II. While the rest of occupied Europe was being liberated in May 1945, this normally tranquil Baltic Island, halfway between Scandinavia and mainland Europe, was being mercilessly bombarded by the Russians. The problem was that they still considered Bornholm a bridgehead for retreating German refugees, so still an active part of the Eastern Front. Airborne bombs leveled nearly a tenth of all homes in Ronne and Nexø on the opposite coast, and the island remained occupied by Russian troops for another 11 months. In many ways this was a preview of the Cold War era to follow. You’ll pass sights tied to this story throughout your panoramic drive through Ronne, including the Russian graves at Allinge Church. A visit to Bornholm Defense Museum will provide detailed background on the occupation and Soviet plans for the area. The Bornholm Museum also visited brims with regional artifacts dating all the way back to Viking and earlier times.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a coach tour of Ronne with special focus on sights related to its occupation by Russia after WWII.
• Visit two museums that between them delve into the military and cultural history of Bornholm Island, going back to prehistoric times.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing; including a light jacket.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.