In 1947, while repairing war damage, the remains of two Roman temples were discovered under St Martin's Church, including one of the largest found north of the Alps.

In the middle ages his tomb attracted pilgrims, as his intercession was believed to cure disorders, especially those related to arthritis.

[5] In September 1944, Elst was the scene of fighting between Allied and German troops during Operation Market Garden.

During this, the tower of St Martin's Church was used as an observation post, and was largely destroyed by shelling.

Seen as a traditional British sauce, the decision received adverse publicity in the UK at the time.