Attractions and Places To See around Pannes - Top 19

On the hill of Montsec in France stands this impressive memorial, erected by the United States in honor of the American troops who broke through the German St. Mihiel salient in September 1918. The monument, a classical colonnade with a bronze relief map in the center, offers a panoramic view of the former battlefield. It symbolizes the cooperation between the French and American armies and commemorates the more than 550,000 American soldiers who took part in this first major, independently led American offensive operation of World War I.

The simple yet poignant structure of the "MONUMENT AUX MORTS," perched high on the hill, can be seen from afar. At the same time, the location offers visitors a sweeping view of the landscape around Montsec, including the Lac de Madine. But this panorama is only a side effect. The memorial was not erected for edifying purposes; rather, it has the dual function of keeping the memory of the victims of war and tyranny alive, and thus also serves as a constant reminder to maintain peace. The architecture of the complex, with its wide staircase and the rectangular columns forming a circle at the top, may well evoke memories of buildings from classical antiquity, but it dates back to the 20th century.

Lac de Madine is an artificial lake of almost 10 km², created in the 1970s as a water reservoir for the city of Metz. It is located in the heart of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park and is part of the Natura 2000 network for its ecological value. The lake has two islands, 250 hectares of forest and 42 km of shoreline. In addition to its role in the drinking water supply, it is an important recreational area with two main sites: Nonsard-Lamarche and Heudicourt-sous-les-Côtes. Visitors will find marinas, beaches, cycle and walking routes, restaurants and nature reserves.

The current church of Montsec was built in 1929, replacing an older church dating from 1723 that was badly damaged during the First World War. The original church had been restored in 1900, but was completely destroyed during the fighting around the Saint-Mihiel salient. The new church is dedicated to Saint Lucy, patron saint of light, and is a symbol of reconstruction in a village that was almost completely destroyed between 1914 and 1918.

Impressive monument, and well maintained, from there you also have a wonderful panoramic view, I can only recommend it to everyone.

Impressive monument, and well maintained, from there you also have a wonderful panoramic view, I can only recommend it to everyone.

Butte de Montsec, an impressive American monument, is formed by a circular colonnade. From the memorial there is a beautiful view of the lake, weather permitting...

If you are looking for a hiking destination combining nature, history and culture, the Lahaussee Regional Nature Park has everything to please you. This nature reserve, located in the Grand Est region, extends over more than 600 hectares of wetlands, forests, meadows and ponds. You will be able to discover the rich biodiversity of the site which is home to numerous species of birds, amphibians, insects and plants. You can also discover the ancient tradition of fish farming, which dates back to the 13th century and still contributes to the local economy and social inclusion. The reserve offers different trails and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Energetic races, observation of fauna and flora, discovery of heritage, you will find what you are looking for in the Lahaussee regional nature reserve.