Nukerke

Nukerke is a small town located in the province of East Flanders, Belgium. It is situated near the city of Ghent, in the area known as the Poldergebied (polder region).

Nukerke is a small, coastal community, nestled close to the Nieuwpoort canal, which connects the town to the North Sea. The community has a long history, with records of settlement dating back to the Middle Ages.

Nukerke is also known for its connections to the Belgian resistance during World War II. Local residents played a significant role in the Narrow escape of Allied forces, helping soldiers to evade German capture, and retrieving downed aircraft from the nearby sea.

Prior to the 1950s, the area was predominantly agricultural, with local residents employing traditional farming methods to cultivate land reclaimed from the sea. Post-war, the community underwent significant changes with modernization efforts aimed at intensifying agricultural production, and establishing new industries in the region.

Tourism has since become an important factor in the local economy, with the area attracting visitors for its historic significance and scenic coastal surroundings. The ancient architecture of the area and marine wildlife are of particular interest.

The town's distinctive polder landscape, reclaimed from the sea, stands as a testament to the region's industrial history, depicting the human impact on the natural environment. Its storied history has led to a wealth of historical sites, many of which have been preserved for today's exploration and appreciation.