The Maginot Line was an extensive system of French underground defensive fortifications with numerous bunkers and attack turrets.
The main purpose was to prevent the German advance across the Franco-German border, particularly into Alsace and Lorraine.
Built between 1930 and 1936, it was named after André Maginot, French Minister of War, and extended for about 400 km.
During the French campaign in May 1940, German armored divisions bypassed the Maginot Line through Belgium and the Ardennes Forest, leading to France’s swift defeat with the fall of Paris on 14th June 1940.
Outflanking allowed German troops to attack the French positions from behind, trapping them in the bunker.
The main defensive fort is that of Schoenenbourg, almost 70 km north of Strasbourg and was the fulcrum of the defense in Alsace.
The main work was completed in 1935, after only four years of construction and its 3-kilometer-long underground tunnels, at a depth of 30 meters, are still perfectly preserved.
Inside the fort you can discover the daily life of the 630 French soldiers with the kitchen, dormitories and infirmary.
The visit also highlights the technical innovations of the time such as the power plant that kept the fort self-sufficient.
Outside, you can see the eclipse able turrets and combat blocks equipped with 81 mm mortars and 75 mm cannons.
It was opened to the public in 1978 and is the main historical and military heritage of the region.
