Fort Mont-Valérien, Military fortress on Mont Valérien, Suresnes, France
Description
Fort Mont-Valérien is a pentagonal fortress sitting atop a hill with a memorial to Fighting France inaugurated in 1960. The compound spans multiple municipalities and combines historical military structures with modern memorial and exhibition spaces.
History
The fortress was originally built in the 19th century under King Louis-Philippe as a defensive installation. During World War II, the German army occupied it and used it as an execution site until liberation arrived in 1944.
Culture
The name Mont-Valérien comes from Saint-Valère, an early Christian martyr, and the fortress carries this spiritual heritage. Today, the memorial functions as a place where visitors come to honor those who resisted occupation and lost their lives.
Practical
The fortress is open to individual visitors mainly during European Heritage Days in September. For guided tours with groups or schools, you should book ahead, so it is best to contact them before planning your visit.
Did you know?
The fortress houses Europe's last active military dovecote and a museum dedicated to military messenger pigeons. These specialized birds played a surprisingly important role as messengers during wartime conflicts.
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