The Battle of Verdun

21st February 1916

The Battle of Verdun, which lasted from 21 February to 15 December 1916, was a turning point in the First World War and Fort Douaumont was the heart of the battle. Situated at 395 metres above sea level, Fort Douaumont was in 1914 the strongest and most modern of the forts around Verdun. It formed the keystone to the French defence around the city andits possession allowed for unrivalled observation over the whole sector.