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Verdun is a city that breathes history. Best known as a symbol of the Great War, this riverside town surprises visitors with its peaceful parks, striking cathedral, and a story that didn’t end in 1916. With our free self-guided audio tour, we take you on a drive through the scars and silence left behind—into the city that chose to rebuild.

One of France’s oldest cities, Verdun once belonged to the Roman province of Belgica Prima, with Trier as its capital. In 843, it became the stage for the Treaty of Verdun—where Charlemagne’s grandsons divided Europe. Centuries later, the city would be nearly destroyed in one of history’s most horrific battles. But Verdun didn’t disappear. It endured. And that’s the story we want to tell.

Parc Japiot - Verdun
© Tourisme Grand Verdun / Camille FLOREMONT

Parc Japiot, from war zone to green haven

Parc Japiot was named after Colonel Albert Japiot, a military engineer who played a crucial role in organising the Voie Sacrée. During the war, this spot was a vital logistical hub, bustling with trucks and ambulances in constant motion. Today, it’s a peaceful green space along the Meuse. After the war, it was planted as a symbol that life is stronger than destruction. There’s even a discreet plaque marking Verdun’s postwar friendship with Germany—a quiet nod to reconciliation.

Monument de la Victoire - Verdun

A Stroll to the Monument de la Victoire

From here, take a scenic walk along the Meuse and across the Pont Chaussée—a bridge that was bombed and rebuilt countless times during WWI—towards the Monument de la Victoire. The bronze soldier atop the monument doesn’t raise his sword in triumph; instead, he reflects. His gaze is turned towards the old battlefield—a subtle reminder that some victories come at too high a cost.

citadelle souterrain Verdun

Citadelle Souterraine: Verdun Beneath Your Feet

Just a short walk takes you to the underground citadel hidden beneath the city. This subterranean fortress once sheltered thousands of soldiers. It was here, in one of its tunnels, that the Unknown Soldier was chosen to represent all of France’s fallen. Today, it’s a museum where an immersive experience takes you on a journey through the eyes of three young soldiers as you explore the underground halls.

Soak It All In—or Out

Verdun is more than just history. It’s also a city of life and flavour. Grab a coffee at a riverside café, visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame with its Romanesque-Gothic beauty, or pop into the Centre Mondial de la Paix, housed in the former bishop’s palace. And don’t forget to try the famous dragées—sugar-coated almonds with a sweet local legacy dating back to the 13th century.

Whether you end your day at a war memorial or sipping something sweet by the Meuse, Verdun will leave an impression. A city that was nearly destroyed, and then rebuilt itself—stronger, kinder, and full of stories

Visit the marks of the battle of Verdun

Self-guided car tour

Free Audio Tour on IZI.TRAVEL
Download the GPX-file

Starting point

55100 Haumont-près-Samogneux, Frankrijk

Distance from Lacuisine

60 km – 55 min by car

Tips

  • Many points are outdoors, so try going o a sunny or cloudy day.
  • Download the Audio Tour and gpx-file of the area in advance. because mobile internet is often weak or even non-existent.
  • Allow a full day for your visit.
Verdun Audio Tour: Discover the Traces of the Great War
Verdun Audio Tour

Series: the battle of Verdun

Verdun played a pivotal role in the Great War, but its story doesn’t end there. In this three-part series, we explored the fierce battles (Part 1), the scars still visible across the landscape (Part 2), and finally, the city itself—a place that rebuilt, remembered, and continues to inspire. With our self-guided audio tour on izi.TRAVEL, you can retrace these steps and uncover Verdun’s many layers at your own pace.

Ready to experience history, reflection, and resilience in one unforgettable trip? Download the tour, hit the road, and don’t forget to share your journey with us using #latrottinetteexperience.

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Got a tip, a travel story, or just want to say hello? Send us a message at experience [at] latrottinette.be, or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram. We love hearing from fellow explorers! Share your adventures with us by tagging @latrottinette.be or using the hashtag #latrottinetteexperience.