Remembrance Tourism

Witnesses of the Past

Alsace, at the crossroads of Europe, is a land of memory where every site tells a story. From the Franco-Prussian conflicts of the 19th century to the construction of European peace, the region offers a unique journey through history to understand, reflect, and remember.

Franco-Prussian War and Fortifications 1870 – 1918

The Franco-Prussian War left a deep mark on Alsace. The Museum of the Battle of August 6, 1870 in Woerth traces the battles and military strategies. In Mutzig, the Fort de Mutzig, also called Feste Kaiser Wilhelm II, illustrates the defensive strength of the period and the modernity of German fortifications.

In Strasbourg, the fortified belt and forts Rapp, Frère, Kléber, and Uhrich showcase urban defense systems, while Neuf-Brisach is an emblematic example of Vauban’s fortifications, highlighting the military and geopolitical stakes before World War I.

World War I : 1914-1918

During World War I, Alsace was a strategic territory. The Hartmannswillerkopf – Vieil Armand overlooks battlefields where thousands of soldiers perished. The scenographed walking trail and the national monument allow visitors to follow the historical route and understand battlefield conditions.

The Linge Memorial Museum in Orbey, the Haute Alsace Memorial, as well as the Abri Mémoire and Musée Serret offer insights into soldiers’ living conditions and hardships. The Ambulance Alpine complements the visit, while partner sites like the Fontenelle National Necropolis or the Col de la Chapelotte broaden the perspective on the conflict and its human impact.

Maginot Line : 1929 – 1940

The Maginot Line represents France’s defensive strategy between the two world wars. The Fort du Four à Chaux in Lembach, the Fort de Schoenenbourg in Hunspach, and the Casemate Esch illustrate the complexity of underground military structures.

The Rhin Maginot Line Memorial and the Haute Alsace Maginot Line Memorial provide educational insights into the defense network and the daily life of soldiers within these impressive structures.

World War II : 1939 -1945

During World War II, Alsace was at the center of combat and occupation. The Struthof – European Center of Deported Resistance recalls the horrors of concentration camps.

The Colmar Pocket Battle Memorial Museum, Walbourg Museum, and MM Park illustrate military operations and the history of liberation.

Memorial sites such as the Sigolsheim National Necropolis and the Niederbronn-les-Bains Cemetery provide reflection on the victims and human costs of the conflict.

Building Peace

After the wars, Alsace became a symbol of reconciliation and European cooperation. The Alsace Moselle Memorial, the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and the European Court of Human Rights embody the commitment to peace and democracy.

The Simone Veil Parlamentarium and the Place of Europe offer immersive, educational experiences, showing how Alsace and Europe have transformed history into lessons of tolerance and cooperation.

crédits photos : C. MEYER ; B. BOUR ; JL DELPAL ; F. FESSLER ; PhilemonHenry