Few entrances to the fort helped it to become so called 'impregnable' but in reality, the fort did not need to be taken - only to neutralise the guns that covered the river crossing points that could have played a part in hindering any German invasion. In reality, the Germans gained control of the top of the fort, disabled the guns and then kept the Belgians below ground.

Back in 1939, the trees on top would not have existed leaving the large top of the fortress, flat and ideal for glider landings. This innovatation in warfare completely took the defenders by surprise and is an example of a perfectly executed plan. Innovation, speed and aggression allowed the numerically inferior Germans to take control of the fort and to disable the artillery that threatened the vital bridges over the river and canal.

This shows the gun recesses which can be explored from the inside. Bullet damage on the fortifications can be clearly seen. The white cupola on top of this structure affords views of the outside through small observation slits. A visitor to the fort can explore most of the inside but this is best done with a tour guide as it is easy to get lost within the 5 km of tunnels. The guide will also bring you to a short film and provide an interesting set of stories.

Fort Eben Emael measured approximately 200 by 400 meters and was roughly triangular. It was completed by 1935, by blasting the required space out of granite and possessed walls and roofs composed of 1.5 m thick reinforced concrete, as well as four retractable casemates and sixty-four strongpoints. This former barrack room has been converted into a memorial dedicated to the Belgians who died in the attack.

A large number of tunnels ran beneath the Fort, connecting individual turrets to the command centre of the Fort and the ammunition stores. The Fort also possessed its own hospital and a number of living quarters for the garrison, as well as a power station that provided electricity to power the guns, provide internal and external illumination, and to power the wireless network and air purifying system used by the garrison.

A fairly typical view of the inside of the fort. With all the tunnels, some of which lead to interesting areas such as the smashed still doors which were damaged in the original attack, a good tour guide is needed.

On the top levels within the fort are the gun emplacements. The tour guide brought to life what it was like to be garrisoned within the fort, and why it was designed the way it was. It was fascinating to actually see where the the War in the West began in earnest and to consider the huge advances in technology, death and destruction that was to engulf Europe for the next five years.