Fort Souville, Military fort in Fleury-devant-Douaumont, France
Fort Souville stands on a strategic ridge overlooking the Verdun battlefield, featuring underground shelters and a retractable turret with two 155mm gun positions. The installation was designed to serve both defensive and logistical functions within the broader fortification system.
The fort was built in 1881 and endured intense bombardment during the Battle of Verdun in 1916. It received tens of thousands of shells yet maintained its underground facilities to support French troops throughout the battle.
The fort represents French military engineering from the post-Franco-Prussian War period, incorporating advanced defensive elements within the Séré de Rivières system. Visitors can observe how the installation was integrated into the landscape and understand the role it played in soldiers' lives.
Visitors should follow marked paths to the Massif fortifié de Souville, as direct exploration of the interior remains restricted for safety reasons. Access follows designated routes that provide a secure overview of the site.
The fort maintained functional medical facilities and command posts throughout World War I, serving as a critical refuge for soldiers heading to front lines. These underground structures were essential for sustaining troops during prolonged fighting.
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