Naval Monument

The Naval Monument rises approximately 145 feet above the lower terrace, displaying sculptures carved from rose-colored granite on all four sides of its shaft. The structure stands in a developed park setting that offers views across Brest Harbor.

The original monument built in the 1930s was destroyed by German forces in 1941, but it was reconstructed identically and completed in 1958. This restoration became an important step in preserving Brest's wartime memory.

The monument displays inscriptions in French and English that commemorate the cooperation between French and American naval forces during World War I. These texts on the granite base help visitors understand the international partnership this place honors.

The monument is located roughly 800 meters southwest of Brest Station within a park setting that offers good views. The site is easily accessible on foot and provides a pleasant area to spend time with harbor views.

The structure sits directly atop a German bunker complex from the war, which remains hidden beneath the monument. This underground space is generally not accessible to visitors, but it reveals how Brest's history is layered in multiple dimensions.

Location: Brest

Architects: Howard Van Doren Shaw

Made from material: granite

GPS coordinates: 48.38348,-4.48629

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06