Ouvrage Bois-du-Four, Military fortification and museum in Morfontaine, France.
Ouvrage Bois-du-Four is an underground military bunker housing a single combat block fitted with three anti-tank cannons, five machine gun positions, and a 96-ton rotating turret. The structure served as part of France's defensive fortifications and functions today as a museum where visitors can see original equipment and restored chambers.
The bunker was constructed in 1932 as part of the French Maginot Line defense system. In June 1940, its garrison of around 137 troops surrendered following the French-German armistice agreement.
The painted frescoes on the walls depict scenes of soldiers' daily routines and reveal how troops spent their time in the underground complex. Today visitors can see these artworks and get a sense of the human side of military life within these fortified spaces.
Access to the site involves narrow underground passages, so sturdy footwear is essential for safe navigation. The interior can be damp and slippery, particularly in wet weather, so appropriate clothing and caution are advisable.
The bunker contains the only restored Type B 81mm mortar firing chamber in northeastern France. This setup demonstrates the original engineering design and how military specialists adapted this weapon for underground deployment.
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