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The battle of Verdun, 21 February 1916 -
December 1916, 300 days and 300 nights of relentless, horrifying
combat. 26,000,000 bombs dropped by the artilleries, which is 6
bombs per m˛, thousands of mutilated bodies, approximately
300,000 French and German missing soldiers.
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The provisional Ossuary from
1920 to 1927
While travelling through this
region, during the first days of Armistice,
Monseigneur GINISTY, bishop of Verdun accompanied by
General VALANTIN, governor of Verdun, had the idea
to give these sacred remains a proper burial place
where the families could come to collect their
thoughts and pray for the dearly departed.
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22 August 1920
The first stone was laid by
Marshal Pétain, Honorary President of the Ossuary
Committee.
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17 September 1927
The grave transfer from the
provisional Ossuary to the permanent Ossuary of 52
tombs, each representing a particular area of the
Battle of Verdun.
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7 August 1932
Official inauguration by the
President of the Republic Albert LEBRUN.
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The top of the 46 metre tower offers
panoramic views with a viewing table. The Victory Bell rings out
during important ceremonies and the light, the lantern of the
dead, shines out over the battlefield.
On the first floor you will find the war
museum, which consists of relics from the destroyed villages,
stereoscopic views in relief of the battlefield, as well as
numerous weapons. In particular you will find a 76 mm German
mortar, which is still in perfect condition, "the Minenwerfer",
and classed as an historic monument.
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