Meuse-Argonne American Memorial

The memorial features a 71-meter granite column in Doric style with a statue at its peak representing liberty. An observation platform sits at the top, reached by an internal staircase of 234 steps.

The memorial was dedicated in 1937 to honor the victory of the American First Army in the Meuse-Argonne offensive of 1918. It stands as a tribute to one of the largest and bloodiest battles involving American forces.

The inscriptions inside tell the story of the soldiers who fought in this region and remain visible to visitors today. Walking around the base, you can read the names and details carved into the stone walls.

Climbing to the observation platform involves roughly 234 steps and should be attempted in good physical condition. The views from above show the former battlefield and surrounding countryside from multiple angles.

This stands as the largest American World War I memorial in all of Europe and was designed by renowned architect John Russell Pope. Its neoclassical form follows traditional European monument styles, setting it apart from other American war memorials.

Location: Montfaucon-d'Argonne

Architects: John Russell Pope

Official opening: August 1, 1937

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, Doric order

Made from material: granite

Part of: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Website: https://abmc.gov/Montfaucon

GPS coordinates: 49.27250,5.14194

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09