The World War II Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial is the only cemetery in the Netherlands. It lies in the village of Margraten six miles east of Maastricht. Bus service to the cemetery runs from the Maastricht Railroad Station. The Maastricht Airport is five miles to the north.
Taxicabs are available.
The cemetery's site has a rich historical background, lying near the famous Cologne-Boulogne highway, originally built by the Romans and used by Caesar during his campaign in that area. In May 1940, Hitler's legions advanced over the route of the old Roman highway, overwhelming the Low Countries. In September 1944, German troops once more used the highway for the withdrawal from the countries occupied for four years. The tall memorial tower can be seen before reaching the cemetery which covers sixty five acres. From the cemetery entrance the visitor approaches through the Court of Honor with its pool reflecting the chapel tower.