More than 100 years on, Fort Douaumont still bears the scars of the terrible Battle of Verdun. Visiting the fort, which has become a symbol, is like a trip back in time where you can experience daily life for both the French and German soldiers. Allow around 90 minutes to walk across the roof and explore inside.
The fort
Fort Douaumont is the largest of the ring of forts around Verdun. It was occupied by the Germans throughout most of the battle, and suffered continual shelling. This mammoth site offers visitors an authentic immersion in a location where thousands of soldiers lived and fought. Fort Douaumont is synonymous with the Battle of Verdun.
Key dates
25 February 1916
Fort captured by the German army
8 May 1916
Accidental explosion at the fort. Between 800 and 1,000 German soldiers are killed.
22– 24 May 1916
The French attempt to retake the fort
24 October 1916
The fort is retaken
Plan your visit to Fort Douaumont
Opening times, admission and getting here
Closing days: 30 September and 1st October 2025. Reopening of the fort on Thursday, 2 October 2025 at 10 a.m.