Merville Battery: A Leap into History

Explore a preserved D-Day fortification in Normandy: experience history firsthand at the Merville Battery Museum, where bravery and sacrifice echo through time near Sword Beach.

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Museum and the Merville Battery site

The Merville Battery Museum offers a poignant and immersive journey into World War II history. Located near Sword Beach in Normandy, this preserved German fortification was neutralized on D-Day by the British 9th Parachute Battalion. Visitors can explore the bunkers, observe a legendary Douglas C-47 aircraft, and experience a captivating sound and light show that recreates the intensity of the D-Day assault. The site provides a concrete understanding of the German defensive system and pays tribute to the Allied soldiers' courage. With free parking, accessibility for those with limited mobility, and a well-curated museum shop, the Merville Battery is a must-visit for history enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection to the events of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. The visit lasts about 90 minutes, offering a comprehensive and moving experience.

A brief summary to Museum and the Merville Battery site

Place du 9ème Bataillon, Merville-Franceville-Plage, 14810, FR
+33231914753
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Local tips

Allow at least 90 minutes to fully explore the site, including the bunkers and sound & light show.
Check the museum's website for seasonal opening hours before planning your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven ground within the bunkers and around the site.
Consider visiting on a clear day to fully appreciate the outdoor exhibits and surrounding landscape.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Sword Beach to gain a broader understanding of the D-Day landings.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Caen, take bus line 20 or 120 towards Merville-Franceville-Plage. Several stops are available in Merville-Franceville-Plage, including 'Merville-Franceville: Gare'. From any of these stops, the Merville Battery is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. A single bus ticket costs around €2-3. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date times.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from the center of Merville-Franceville-Plage to the Merville Battery will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and availability. The journey is short, typically less than 10 minutes.
Driving

If driving, follow signs for the Merville Battery (Batterie de Merville). Free parking is available on-site at Place du 9ème Bataillon. The site is well-served by the D514 and D515 from Caen. Note that during peak season, parking may be limited.

Discover more about Museum and the Merville Battery site

The Merville Battery stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the Normandy landings. This former German fortification, a key component of the Atlantic Wall, played a crucial role in the defense of continental Europe. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the intensity of the D-Day assault. The battery's history is deeply intertwined with the events of June 6, 1944. Allied intelligence identified it as a major threat, believing its heavy guns could target the landing beaches, particularly Sword Beach, located just a few miles away. The task of neutralizing the battery fell to the British 9th Parachute Battalion, who faced a formidable challenge. The German defenses were extensive. The battery consisted of four heavily fortified concrete casemates, each housing a 100mm howitzer. These casemates were built to withstand heavy bombardment, with walls several feet thick. The site was further protected by barbed wire, a minefield, and an anti-tank ditch, making a direct assault incredibly dangerous. Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Terence Otway, the 9th Parachute Battalion launched their assault in the early hours of D-Day. Despite facing heavy resistance and suffering significant casualties, the paratroopers managed to breach the defenses and capture the battery. Their bravery and determination ensured that the guns would not be used against the Allied forces landing on Sword Beach. Today, the Merville Battery Museum preserves the site and tells the story of the battle. Visitors can explore the original bunkers, which have been transformed into museum spaces. These bunkers house exhibits that showcase the history of the battery, the lives of the soldiers who fought there, and the impact of the battle on the surrounding area. One of the highlights of the museum is the Douglas C-47 aircraft on display. This legendary plane participated in the D-Day landings, dropping paratroopers into Normandy. Its presence at the Merville Battery serves as a powerful symbol of the Allied air support that was crucial to the success of the invasion. The museum also features a captivating sound and light show that recreates the intensity of the D-Day assault. This immersive experience allows visitors to feel as though they are present during the battle, witnessing the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought there. The Merville Battery Museum is committed to providing an accessible experience for all visitors. The majority of the site is accessible to those with limited mobility, ensuring that everyone can explore the bunkers and learn about the history of the battery. Dogs are also allowed on the site, making it a welcoming destination for pet owners. Beyond the historical exhibits, the Merville Battery Museum offers a range of services and amenities to enhance the visitor experience. These include free parking, a picnic area, baby changing facilities, and a museum shop. The shop offers a variety of souvenirs, books, and other items related to the history of the battery and the Normandy landings. The Merville Battery is more than just a museum; it is a place of remembrance and reflection. It serves as a tribute to the soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Normandy, and it reminds us of the importance of preserving their memory for future generations. A visit to the Merville Battery is a moving and educational experience that will leave a lasting impression. The site is located in Merville-Franceville-Plage, a charming coastal town in Normandy. The town offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and other attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the D-Day landing beaches and other historical sites in the area. The Merville Battery Museum is open to the public from mid-March to mid-November. The opening hours vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check the museum's website before visiting. Admission fees are reasonable, and discounts are available for children, students, and seniors. Visiting the Merville Battery offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the events of D-Day firsthand. The preserved bunkers, the Douglas C-47 aircraft, and the immersive sound and light show combine to create a powerful and moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of World War II, or simply someone who wants to pay tribute to the sacrifices made during the Normandy landings, the Merville Battery Museum is a must-visit destination. It is a place where history comes alive, and where the memory of those who fought for freedom is honored and preserved.

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Merville Battery: A Leap into History

A brief summary to Museum and the Merville Battery site

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Museum and the Merville Battery site

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Museum and the Merville Battery site

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lighthouse of Ouistreham

Normandy beach race

Plage de Ouistreham

Pegasus Bridge

Ranville War Cemetery

Beach Temple

Sword Beach

Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery

Caen Tourist Office

Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,

Abbaye d'Ardenne

Monument Signal du D-day

Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery

Plage de Courseulles sur Mer

Deauville Beach

Unmissable attractions to see

Église Saint-Samson

Normandy Classic Tour

Original "Pegasus Bridge" in the museum grounds

Memorial Pegasus

Promenade Marcel Proust

Cabourg

Halles médiévales de Dives-sur-mer

Maison Bleue de Da Costa

Site fortifié Hillman

Parc Ornavik

Château de Beauregard

Luc-sur-Mer

Blockhaus WW2

Manoir des Gens d'armes

Parc Michel d'Ornano

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Le Goeland

La Rose Des Vents

La table d'hôtes

Restaurant la Voile Blanche - Ouistreham Riva Bella

Les Tisons

Casino Barrière Ouistreham

les cabines

ÕYAT

La Cabane du Vivier

La Ferme Saint Hubert

La Fabrique

L'Arbre à Pin

La Taverne

Le comptoir du Beau Rivage

La Table des Matieres

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Mondial Plus Décoration Ouistreham

Beach Riva Bella

Bookstore waves and words

Mondial Plus Menager Literie et Loisirs Ouistreham

Liberty Boutique

Action Dives sur Mer

Smyths Toys Caen

Mondeville 2

Centre commercial Côte de Nacre

B&M

Fripe à la mode de Caen

Les Rives de l'Orne

Le Dressing de Minette

Le Comptoir Irlandais

Fossil Store

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Surf BAR Franceville Beach

Carpedien Cabourg

The Dad and Son