Somme 1916 Museum
About This Museum
People come to the Somme 1916 Museum not just to learn history, but to feel it. Descending the long, cool stairs into a former air-raid shelter, you immediately leave the sunny French town of Albert behind and enter the claustrophobic world of a WWI soldier. The air feels different down here, and the sound of distant shelling in the audio guide sends a shiver down your spine. It’s an incredibly immersive and sobering experience that connects you to the past in a way no textbook ever could.
Collection Highlights
The tunnels are lined with life-sized scenes depicting soldiers' daily lives—from a field kitchen to a cramped bunkroom. You'll see hundreds of authentic artifacts dug from the surrounding battlefields, including rusted rifles, personal letters, and even a collection of makeshift trench art.
Visitor Information
It's located right in the heart of Albert on Rue Anicet Godin—you can't miss the golden Virgin Mary statue on the basilica towering above it. Definitely book ahead online during peak season to avoid waiting, and wear a jacket as it's chilly underground year-round. There's a thoughtful gift shop with books and replicas at the end.
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed within a series of underground tunnels originally built as civilian shelters in 1938, accessed through a modest entrance building on a main street.
Contact & Location
Address: Rue Anicet Godin, Albert, Péronne, Somme, Hauts-de-France, France métropolitaine, 80300, France
Phone: +33 3 22 75 16 17
Website: Visit Website
