WW2 Motorbike Found in Danube

A Second World War-era German DKW NZ-350-1 motorcycle was found in the Danube near Budapest, bringing to life the siege of the city. The motorcycle, discovered near Batthyány Square in the heart of the capital, belonged to the armoured division Feldherrnhalle, one of the most important units among the German forces encircled in Budapest.

The Feldherrnhalle division had an armoured pioneer battalion bearing the same name, and the motorcycle may have entered the inventory of the Feldherrnhalle unit in September 1944. The unit was later renamed Panzer-Pionier-Bataillon Feldherrnhalle in October 1944.

The discovery of the motorcycle is significant, as it sheds light on the period when almost 100,000 German and Hungarian soldiers became casualties in Budapest. The find also included anti-tank mines, ammunition, and the remains of two German soldiers.

The armed forces of the Third Reich occupied Hungary on 19 March 1944, marking a turning point in the war for the country. Until then, Hungary was not considered a theatre of operations, but the occupation changed the course of the war, leading to a prolonged and bloody siege of Budapest.

## Why it matters The discovery of the motorcycle and other relics from the Second World War serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of the war. The siege of Budapest was one of the most brutal and costly battles of the war, with almost 100,000 soldiers losing their lives. The find provides a unique glimpse into the history of the war and the experiences of the soldiers who fought in it.

The motorcycle's discovery has fascinated archaeologists, historians, and military-history enthusiasts, and it is considered an extremely rare find. The fact that it surfaced in such good condition is a testament to the preservation of the past and the importance of remembering the events that shaped our world.