Chemin des Dames, Historical road between Laon and Soissons, France
Chemin des Dames is a road that runs along a limestone plateau between Laon and Soissons in northern France. It follows a ridge through gentle hills and valleys for about 30 kilometers (19 miles).
In 1917 this area became the site of heavy fighting during the First World War between French and German troops. The engagements claimed around 433,000 casualties on both sides.
The name comes from the daughters of King Louis XV, Adelaide and Victoire, who traveled here when visiting Château de la Bove. Today the road links several military cemeteries and memorials that draw visitors from around the world.
The D18CD runs along the ridge and connects several memorials, museums, and underground tunnels from the First World War. Most sites are accessible directly from the road or just a short walk away.
Beneath the road lie extensive networks of caves and quarries that soldiers from both sides used as shelters and hospitals. Some of these underground galleries are now open as preserved military installations.
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