Tunnels under Messines

The tunnels under Messines refer to extensive underground tunnels dug by Allied forces during World War I beneath the Messines Ridge in Belgium. These tunnels were used for strategic purposes, mainly to plant large quantities of explosives beneath German positions. When detonated simultaneously on June 7, 1917, they created a massive explosion that significantly weakened the enemy defenses and contributed to an Allied assault. This tunneling effort showcased innovative military engineering, involving careful planning and coordination to hide the preparations from the enemy and achieve a decisive battlefield advantage.