Explore the Merville Battery: A Journey Through History
Discover the Merville Battery Museum, a captivating war museum in Normandy, revealing the history of World War II through immersive exhibits and artifacts.
The Merville Battery Museum, located in the picturesque Merville-Franceville-Plage, is a significant war museum that offers a unique insight into the events of World War II. It was originally built by the German army as a crucial part of their coastal defense system. Today, this site has been restored and transformed into an educational hub that attracts history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The museum features a range of exhibits that include original artifacts, photographs, and detailed narratives that bring to life the experiences of soldiers and civilians during the war. Visitors can explore the battery's fortifications, including the impressive bunkers and artillery positions, which provide a tangible connection to the past. The museum also offers guided tours that enhance the experience, providing deeper context and stories that resonate with the exhibits. For those interested in military history, the Merville Battery serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of war and the importance of remembrance. The surrounding area is equally beautiful, with the peaceful beaches of Normandy just a stone’s throw away, making it a perfect spot to reflect on history while enjoying the natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about the region's past, the Merville Battery Museum is an essential stop that will enrich your visit to Normandy.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds for a more intimate experience.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and take part in guided tours.
- Check the museum's website for special events or exhibitions that may be happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through various outdoor and indoor areas.
A brief summary to Museum and the Merville Battery site
- Place du 9ème Bataillon, Merville-Franceville-Plage, 14810, FR
- +33231914753
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the Merville Battery site from any point in Normandy Beaches, enter the following address into your GPS: Place du 9ème Bataillon, 14810 Merville-Franceville-Plage. The site is located approximately 20 minutes from Caen via the D514 road. Follow the D514 until you reach Merville-Franceville-Plage, and look for the signs directing you to the battery site. Parking is available on-site, typically free of charge.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Merville Battery site via public transport, you can take a train from Caen to Merville-Franceville-Plage. Trains run regularly, and the journey takes about 25 minutes. Once you arrive at the Merville-Franceville-Plage station, exit and walk towards Place du 9ème Bataillon, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the station. Follow the signs directing you to the Merville Battery site. Make sure to check the train schedules in advance, as there may be limited services on weekends.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
If you prefer a more direct route and want to avoid public transport, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service from your location in Normandy Beaches. Depending on your starting point, a taxi ride to the Merville Battery site may cost around 20-30 euros. Provide the driver with the address: Place du 9ème Bataillon, 14810 Merville-Franceville-Plage.
Attractions Nearby to Museum and the Merville Battery site
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Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
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Karting Circuit de Cabourg
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Église Saint-Samson
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Normandy Classic Tour
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Normandy beach race
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Beach Riva Bella
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Plage de Ouistreham
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Cabourg Racecourse
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Ouistreham plage
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Horsa Bridge Stele
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Ranville War Cemetery
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Original "Pegasus Bridge" in the museum grounds
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Memorial Pegasus
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Promenade Marcel Proust
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Cabourg
Landmarks nearby to Museum and the Merville Battery site
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Lighthouse of Ouistreham
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Beach Temple
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Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery
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Caen Botanical Garden
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Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur
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Mémorial de Caen
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Old St. Stephen's Church
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L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
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Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,
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Colline aux Oiseaux
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Abbaye d'Ardenne
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D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
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Monument Signal du D-day
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Château de Fontaine-Henry
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Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery