The best MTB trails around Varennes-En-Argonne

This impressive American WWI memorial was dedicated in 1937 to commemorate the victory of the American First Army during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive (26 September – 11 November 1918). The 54-metre-high Doric granite column, designed by John Russell Pope, is topped by a statue symbolising liberty. The monument stands on the hill of Montfaucon, where a medieval monastery once stood and where the Americans achieved a strategic victory in 1918.

Tips: Climb the 234 steps to the viewing platform for a panoramic view of the former battlefield. Read the inscriptions at the foot of the monument with the names of the participating divisions.

This impressive American WWI memorial was dedicated in 1937 to commemorate the victory of the American First Army during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive (26 September – 11 November 1918). The 54-metre-high Doric granite column, designed by John Russell Pope, is topped by a statue symbolising liberty 1 2. The monument stands on the hill of Montfaucon, where a medieval monastery once stood and where the Americans achieved a strategic victory in 1918.

Big part is closed from October till April!

As a memorial to the many war dead, such places of remembrance are still very important today. "Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said..." it says in the so-called "Hymn of Simeon" (Luke's Gospel, Chapter 2, Verse 29). However, the large number of those buried here did not depart in peace, but became senseless victims of war and tyranny. The most important and everlasting function of such monuments (in German-speaking countries mostly referred to as soldiers' cemeteries or war graves) is therefore to remind each generation anew of the need to permanently preserve peace.

The Grand church is worth a stop. It offers a curious contrast between the massive tower of its facade and its delicate bell tower.

As a memorial to the many dead, such a “MONUMENT AUX MORTS” (usually called a “cenotaph” or “war memorial” in German-speaking countries) is still very important today. "Now you, O Lord, let your servant depart in peace, as you said..." says the so-called "Song of Simeon" (Gospel of Luke chapter 2, verse 29). However, the people who are remembered here did not die in peace, but rather became victims of war and tyranny. Many places and monuments that you encounter along the way are a testament to the horror of war and tyranny - which is still significant and relevant today. They all have, and this is new for each generation, two essential functions: -1- Commemorate and remember the victims -2- Call for the preservation of peace

The Sainte-Ménéhould national cemetery brings together the remains of French soldiers who, despite the care provided in the city's numerous hospitals, died as a result of their injuries during the two world wars. Nearly 5,700 bodies are buried there.