Fort de Loncin, Liège

Fort de Loncin, a historical gem nestled in the city of Liège, Belgium, stands as a poignant museum and a somber reminder of World War I's early battles. This fortress, part of a ring of twelve forts designed to protect Liège, was constructed between 1888 and 1892 and is infamous for its destruction during the Battle of Liège in August 1914.

The fort, originally built with unreinforced concrete, was subjected to intense bombardment by the German army's Big Bertha howitzers. The attack culminated in a direct hit on the munitions magazine, causing a devastating explosion that killed the majority of the garrison and left the fort in ruins. Today, Fort de Loncin is one of the few forts from this period that has been preserved in its post-battle state, offering visitors a stark visual testimony to the power of modern artillery and the tragedies of war.

The site has been transformed into a museum where visitors can explore the remaining structures, including the gun turrets, barracks, and the massive crater left by the explosion. Exhibits within the museum provide educational insights into the fort's strategic significance, the lives of the soldiers stationed there, and the broader context of World War I.

The Fort de Loncin also serves as a military cemetery. The remains of the soldiers who perished in the explosion are interred there, and a memorial honors their sacrifice. This aspect of the site adds a layer of solemnity and reflection for those who come to learn and remember.

Open to the public, the museum offers guided tours that bring to life the fort's history and the fateful events of its destruction. The guides are well-versed in the site's past and provide detailed narratives that enhance the visitor experience.