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Australian National Memorial, Villers-Bretonneux

Honoring Australian WWI soldiers with no known grave, this memorial offers panoramic views and a moving tribute to their sacrifice on the Western Front.

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The Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux, France, is the primary memorial for Australian military personnel killed on the Western Front during World War I. It commemorates soldiers of the Australian Imperial Force who died in France and have no known grave. The memorial stands within the Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery and offers panoramic views of the Somme.

A brief summary to Australian National Memorial

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early for the Anzac Day Dawn Service, as it is a popular event and requires registration.
  • Visit the Sir John Monash Centre to gain a deeper understanding of the Australian experience on the Western Front.
  • Take time to explore the Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery and reflect on the sacrifices made.
  • Check the opening hours of the tower, as access may be restricted during bad weather.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Amiens, take the Trans80 bus line to Fouilloy. The bus journey takes approximately 26 minutes and costs between €1 and €2. From the bus stop in Fouilloy, it is a short walk to the Australian National Memorial. Alternatively, during the Anzac Day period, Somme Tourisme offers a shuttle service from Amiens train station to the memorial for €20.

  • Walking

    From Villers-Bretonneux, the Australian National Memorial is approximately a 45-minute walk (3.7km). Follow the designated pedestrian paths from the town center. Note that parking in Villers-Bretonneux may be restricted, especially around Anzac Day.

  • Taxi

    From Amiens, a taxi to the Australian National Memorial takes about 18 minutes and costs approximately €30-€40. There are no taxi ranks at the memorial, so pre-booking is recommended.

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Discover more about Australian National Memorial

The Australian National Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the Australian soldiers who fought and died on the Western Front during World War I. Located in Villers-Bretonneux, it specifically honors those whose final resting places are unknown. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the memorial features a central tower offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, and walls inscribed with the names of 10,729 Australian casualties. The memorial's location is significant, as Villers-Bretonneux was the site where Australian forces halted the German advance in April 1918. The recapture of the village by Australian divisions is considered a turning point in the war. The memorial was unveiled by King George VI on July 22, 1938. During the Second World War, the memorial was damaged and used as an observation post. Today, the site includes the Sir John Monash Centre, a state-of-the-art museum that tells the story of Australians on the Western Front. The Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery, surrounding the memorial, contains over 2,100 Commonwealth servicemen, with more than 600 unidentified. The annual Anzac Day Dawn Service is held here, drawing thousands to pay their respects.

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