19/07/2023
Fossen Bratte (The waterfall "Bratte" - indicates that it's a steep waterfall. It's also called the Bridal Veil) is one of many spectacular waterfalls in Norway. There is also a lot of history attached to this one.
During the Second World War, the valley was the site of the battles at the Bratte waterfall. There was a barricade at the bend in the road where the waterfall spills out.
In April 1940, the Germanes advanced against Voss following three offensives: Along the Bergen Railway, through the Granvin-Skjervet valley and along the Hardanger Road. Here the waterfall Bratte formed an almost impenetrable barrier where it spills out from a narrow gorge. In the afternoon of 22 April 1940, German forces advanced against the Norwegian security forces and volunteer riflemen stationed at the waterfall. Today there is a memorial to the three fallen Norwegians.
There were three sniper team members who gave their lives in the fighting on 23 April 1940 when the Germans came from behind: Arne Soldal, Lars Vangdal and Sjur Mo.
A German also fell, and later two German soldiers died at the Bratte waterfall when their motorcycle failed to make the turn. In 1954, a car drove downhill, and the driver died.
More tragic history:
A French couple, René Zephir Laigle (aged 28) and Ginette Doux Laigle (aged 24) were on their honeymoon when they drove off the road on 13 July 1951. They drove off at the top of the waterfall, and both lost their lives. A commemorative plaque has been erected at the bottom of the valley.
Source: Wikipedia