DOUAUMONT FORT

Douaumont Fort, the northernmost fort in the Verdun perimeter, stands 395 m high and forms part of the line of defence set up by General Séré de Rivières. Built between 1884 and 1886, it offers its gunners an ideal 360-degree position. Built on a hexagonal plan, bordered by dry ditches 14 m wide and 6 m deep, it houses a number of strategic installations. At the center of the fort: a barracks consisting of vaulted casemates and an underground gallery. These housed kitchens, barracks, bakeries, infirmary, forge and ammunition stores, with a capacity for almost 900 soldiers. The basement housed gunpowder stores and water tanks. Around this central island, firing platforms were laid out in an arc, intersected by sheltering crossbeams to protect men and ammunition in the event of an attack. In terms of weaponry, the infrastructure included 6 x 155 mm, 6 x 120 mm and 4 x 95 mm guns.

It was the most powerful structure in the stronghold of Verdun, and was modernized in 1901. Occupied by the Germans just 4 days after the start of the battle, it was not retaken until 8 months later, in October 1916. Your visit is enhanced by period documents, and commentary if you have chosen the multimedia guide. Among the key stages of your tour, you'll discover a barracks room, the 155 turret, and the German necropolis where over 600 soldiers are buried. Don't miss the panoramic view from the fort: a 360° view of the entire monument and the Verdun national forest. A poignant visit, a witness to a historical past that seems so close to us through this immersion. A work of memory that we must continue, to enlighten younger generations.

Don't forget to bundle up, as the temperature inside the fort doesn't exceed 12°C. Groups welcome on reservation. An educational guide is also available for teachers and their students, and can be downloaded from www.verdun-meuse.fr. Family package and foreign-language tour package available. Ticket office closes 40 minutes before site closing time.