Military history sites are more than just the footnotes of history. They serve as time capsules, transporting us back to a world at war, a time when so many lost their lives far from home. These locations act as the ultimate marketplace of memory, where we can explore preserved battle sites and bunkers, honoring the heroes who fought so that we might be free from tyranny.
1. Normandy: Reliving D-Day at the Landing Beaches
If you’re fascinated by the events of World War II, a visit to Normandy’s beaches is a must. It was here on the 6th of June 1944 that the D-Day invasion took place. This marked a turning point for the Allies in the War and is still spoken about today.
Although thousands of these brave soldiers lost their lives on Normandy’s shores. Their sacrifice for the greater good has never been forgotten. Relive D-Day by walking on these iconic battleground shores, and visiting the remnants of bunkers and memorials to the fallen heroes.
Go on a solo or family expedition as part of a visit to France. Or better yet, take one of the comprehensive Band of Brothers Tours. These tours bring this haunting period of history to life, with expert insights and fact-filled commentaries.
2. The Ardennes: Battle of the Bulge Bunkers
The Battle of the Ardennes, perhaps better known as the Battle of the Bulge, lasted from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945. During these six short weeks, the Ardennes region of Belgium became the final resting place of many thousands of soldiers.
It was the deadliest single battle that US soldiers endured, with losses of approximately 19,000 men. Explore these battle sites on a specialized Battle of the Bulge history tour.
You’ll see the battlegrounds and well-preserved bunkers that testify of their bravery amid harsh and brutal conditions. Some tours also include entry to the Bastogne War Museum Bois Jacques Foxholes. If you prefer to do some solo exploration, don’t forget to include these key points of interest on your agenda.
3. Atlantic Wall Fortifications: Germany’s WWII Defence
The remnants of the Atlantic Wall stretch from Norway to the French border, offering a glimpse into Nazi Germany’s strategic WWII defences. These massive fortifications and bunkers have been preserved to highlight the lengths Nazi Germany went to, to prevent Allied invasions.
With the United States entering the war, the Axis powers faced the problem of fighting off European and US Allies. Built between 1942 and 1944, the Wall enforced the German War effort’s idea of “Fortress Europe” to help them stave off Allied attacks.
Some of these fortifications can still be seen to this day. However, many of the concrete defensive structures now lie abandoned in the ocean off the coast of Northern France. You may want to see these for yourself. But use appropriate gear and observe safety practices, in all adventures on the ocean.
Many ruins of the wall remain standing if you prefer keeping your feet on solid ground. Explore the remains of the Atlantic Wall on a self-guided tour, visit the Atlantic Wall Museum in Belgium, or go on one of the many tours offered. Virtual tours are also available.
4. Italy’s Gothic Line: Hidden WWII Strongholds
The Gothic Line was a German and Italian military defensive line during the Second World War. It stretched across Italy, incorporating a series of defensive positions built by the Nazi German forces. It aimed to protect the PO Valley and enable the movement of military machinery.
The Line took advantage of an Italian topographic feature, the Apennine Mountains. Rather than a continuous line, it was a series of defensive structures that exploited the natural terrain.
Many of the bunkers and battle sites remain accessible today, for those who want a peek into the Italian Front. Tours in the region typically include museum visits as well as exploration of World War 2-era bunkers
5. The Maginot Line: France’s Famed Fortifications
The Maginot Line was an extensive system of bunkers and tunnels built before the outbreak of WWII. This system of fortifications was constructed by the French along their eastern border during the 1930s, in response to France’s history of warfare with Germany and the aftermath of the First World War.
The site was chosen because France had few natural barriers there to protect against invasion. Unfortunately, it was not enough to keep the German troops at bay during the Second World War. Yet although it didn’t prevent invasion, these structures were a significant part of France’s military history.
Looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity? Some of these sites remain open to the public for tours today, with command posts, barracks, kitchens, and more on display. The forts are open between April and October. Varying entrance fees apply.