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Historial de la Grande Guerre - Thiepval Museum

Explore the poignant history of the Battle of the Somme at the Historial de la Grande Guerre in Thiepval, a moving tribute to those who served during World War I, offering deep insights and emotional connection.

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The Historial de la Grande Guerre in Thiepval offers a poignant and immersive experience focusing on the Battle of the Somme. Located near the Thiepval Memorial, the museum provides a deep understanding of the war through the eyes of French, British, and German soldiers. Exhibits include artifacts, multimedia displays, and a moving panorama of the battlefield drawn by Joe Sacco. The museum explores the human impact of the war, detailing the lives of soldiers and civilians alike. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during World War I and a place for reflection and remembrance. The museum enhances the experience of visiting the Thiepval Memorial, providing historical context and emotional depth. A visit here is a moving tribute to those who served and a crucial stop for anyone exploring the Somme battlefields.

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Local tips

  • Allow ample time to explore both the museum and the nearby Thiepval Memorial for a comprehensive understanding of the site's significance.
  • Visit during the spring or summer for pleasant weather and to see the surrounding landscape in full bloom.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events that may enhance your visit.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket for both the Thiepval museum and the Historial de la Grande Guerre in Péronne for a more complete historical experience.
  • Take advantage of the audio-guide available in French, English, and German for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from the town of Albert, follow the D929 north. After a few kilometers, turn right onto the D73 towards Thiepval. The museum is located on Rue de l'Ancre. There is a free car park opposite the museum entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From Albert, Trans80 bus line 7-2-238 operates a limited service to Thiepval. The bus stops at Thiepval - Eglise, which is a short walk from the museum. Check the Trans80 website for the current schedule. A single ticket costs approximately €1-€3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are available in Albert. A taxi from Albert to Thiepval will cost approximately €15-€19 and takes around 10 minutes.

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The Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval, a branch of the Historial de la Grande Guerre in Péronne, stands as a powerful and moving testament to the history of World War I, with a particular focus on the Battle of the Somme. Situated a short distance from the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, the museum provides visitors with a profound insight into the experiences of soldiers and civilians during one of the most devastating campaigns in human history. The museum, which opened in June 2016, was built to complement the existing visitor center and to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. It is dedicated to the history of the battles of the Somme, especially the Somme Campaign of 1916, and to the memory of the Missing. The location itself is significant, as Thiepval was a strategic target during the Battle of the Somme, owing to its position on a rare patch of higher ground amid the flatness of the valley. Some of the most intense combat took place here, making it a fitting location for a memorial and museum. The museum's exhibits are designed to educate visitors of all ages, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts, students, and families. The proximity of the Thiepval Memorial adds a deeply emotional dimension to the visit, encouraging reflection on the sacrifices made during the war. The museum emphasizes the global nature of World War I by showcasing the perspectives of soldiers from France, Great Britain, and Germany. This unique comparative approach helps visitors understand the shared suffering of all sides. The permanent exhibition, spanning 400 square meters, unites museum pieces, archaeological artifacts, multimedia, and large-scale installations. One of the most striking features is the 60-meter-long mural by Joe Sacco, which opens an imaginary window onto the battlefield of July 1, 1916. This panorama places the visitor as a spectator of the battlefield, delivering both a historical and memorial narrative. Inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, the mural offers a unique and immersive experience. The museum also explores the impact of the war on civilians, examining how the conflict affected their lives, from displacement to the challenges of life on the home front. Interactive displays, including maps, videos, and soundscapes, immerse visitors in the history of the war. Detailed dioramas and models depict the trenches and battlefield landscapes, providing a tangible sense of the conditions faced by soldiers. One of the highlights of the museum is the life-size replica of the Nieuport plane flown by French fighter ace Georges Guynemer. This exhibit pays tribute to the role of aviation in the war and provides a glimpse into the lives of the pilots who fought in the skies above the Somme. The museum is divided into seven independent but complementary spaces, each focusing on different aspects of the Battle of the Somme. These spaces include exhibits dedicated to the German and French perspectives, pictorial cartography of the rear, a room dedicated to the Missing with relics and portraits, and a space reserved for the Aces of Aviation. The Historial de la Grande Guerre also manages the Thiepval Visitor Centre, which provides an overview of the Great War, the Battle of the Somme, and the Thiepval Memorial. The Visitor Centre offers display panels in English, French, and German, as well as films covering the subjects of Thiepval, the Battle of the Somme, and Memory. Visiting the Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval is a deeply moving and educational experience. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the Battle of the Somme and its impact on the world. The museum serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians during World War I. A visit to the museum enhances the experience of visiting the Thiepval Memorial, providing historical context and emotional depth. It is a crucial stop for anyone exploring the Somme battlefields and seeking to understand the human cost of war. The museum is accessible to people with disabilities, with ramps and facilities available. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as visitors will likely be exploring outdoor sites. The best time to visit Thiepval is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is mild and the landscape is in full bloom. The museum is open daily from March 1 to October 31, and daily except Wednesdays from November 1 to the end of February. The museum is closed annually in early December and reopens in early February.

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