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From Prehistoric Times to Today: The Rich History of Alsace
- February 26, 2023
- To Know
If you’re a fan of history, culture, and all things weird and wonderful, then you’re going to love the history of Alsace!... Read More
A Journey Through Time: Visiting Alsace’s Memorial Sites
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by Julia Ward
- February 27, 2023
- To Know
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Alsace is a region that has been marked by several historical events, including both World War I and World War II. As a result, there are numerous memorial sites throughout the region that pay tribute to those who lost their lives and those who fought for their country’s freedom.
German Empire
Mutzig Fort – Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II
The Mutzig Fort was built to defend the Alsace region of France against German invasion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The fort is located near the town of Mutzig and was part of the Séré de Rivières system of fortifications, which were designed to protect France’s eastern borders. The Mutzig Fort was built between 1893 and 1916 and was heavily fortified with concrete and steel to resist artillery attacks. Today, visitors can explore the fort’s underground tunnels, barracks, and artillery emplacements, and learn about the history of this fascinating military structure. http://www.fort-mutzig.eu/v_2022/accueil_2022.php?langue=EN&num_page=0
World War I
Maginot Line Fort Schoenenbourg
The Maginot Line Fort Schoenenbourg was built to protect France’s eastern border from invasion, particularly from Germany, in the years leading up to World War II. The fort was part of the larger Maginot Line, a system of defensive fortifications designed to deter any potential invasions from the east. Schoenenbourg was one of the most heavily fortified forts in the Maginot Line, with numerous gun turrets, machine gun emplacements, and other defensive features.
Le Linge
“Le Linge” was a World War I battlefield located in the Vosges Mountains near the town of Orbey in the Alsace region of France. It was the site of intense fighting between French and German forces in 1915 and 1916, and the battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. The battlefield is now a national memorial and historical site, where visitors can explore the trenches and learn about the history of the battle. https://linge1915.eu/index.php/en/
Le Hartmannswillerkopf
Hartmannswillerkopf, also known as the Vieil Armand, is a mountain peak in the Vosges mountain range in France. It was the site of intense fighting between French and German forces during World War I, specifically from 1915 to 1916. The battle for Hartmannswillerkopf was part of a larger campaign known as the Battle of the Frontiers. The mountain was strategically important for both sides due to its commanding position overlooking the plains of Alsace. The fighting was characterized by close-quarters combat in extremely difficult terrain, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. Today, Hartmannswillerkopf is a national monument and site of remembrance for the soldiers who fought there. https://www.memorial-hwk.eu/en
World War II
Alsace-Moselle Memorial
One of the most famous memorial sites in Alsace is the Alsace-Moselle Memorial, located in the town of Schirmeck. This site serves as a memorial to those who died during World War I and World War II, as well as to those who suffered under the Nazi regime in Alsace-Moselle. https://www.memorial-alsace-moselle.com/en/
Struthof
The Struthof concentration camp, located near the town of Schirmeck, is also an important memorial site. This was the only Nazi concentration camp located on French soil, and today it serves as a museum and memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. https://www.struthof.fr/en/
Visiting these memorial sites can be a powerful and moving experience, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the historical events that have shaped the region of Alsace.
