Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a military burial ground and memorial site on the coast of Colleville-sur-Mer in France, spreading across gently sloping lawns overlooking the sea. White marble crosses and Stars of David stand in geometric rows between low hedges and manicured pathways, while a central reflecting pool is framed by colonnaded walkways.

The cemetery was established two days after the landings on June 8, 1944, as a temporary resting place for soldiers who fell during the allied invasion. It was expanded and redesigned over the following years before receiving its permanent dedication on July 18, 1956.

The name reflects the American military tradition of maintaining overseas burial grounds for fallen service members, and the site serves as a pilgrimage destination for families from the United States. Visitors often leave small flags or flowers at individual graves, especially on Memorial Day and landing anniversaries.

The grounds open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, and entry is free, with a visitor center offering insights into individual stories through exhibits and documents. The site is spread over a hillside, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time for walking.

A garden of remembrance includes a semicircular wall listing 1,557 names of soldiers whose remains were never recovered or identified. The bronze statue at the central plaza depicts a youth rising from symbolic waves, a motif representing the passage from sea to shore.

Location: Colleville-sur-Mer

Inception: June 8, 1944

Address: Rte du Cimetiere Americain, 14710 Colleville-sur-Mer, France

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-16:45

Phone: +33231516200

Website: https://abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/normandy-american-cemetery

GPS coordinates: 49.36000,-0.85750

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:04