Musée de l’Abri de Hatten

The Musée de l’Abri de Hatten, located in the village of Hatten in Alsace, France, is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of the Maginot Line and the events that unfolded during World War II in the region. It provides a comprehensive look at the Maginot Line’s role in French defense strategy and the impact of the war on Alsace.

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Musée de l’Abri de Hatten (Ligne Maginot Museum}

Rue de l’Abri

67690 Hatten

France

Le Musée de l’Abri Hatten

musee.abri@orange.fr

+33 3 88 80 14 90

Fax +33 3 88 80 09 25

March 1 – June 14 and September 16 – November 11

  • Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10:00 – 18:00

June 15 to September 15

  • Daily 10:00 to 18:00

Allow 2 to 3 hours for the visit. Warm clothing and good walking shoes required to visit the bunker.

Admission fee

Located 35 miles (50 km) north of Strasbourg and 25 miles (40 km) west of Karlsruhe, the “Abri” (shelter) is an underground barrack.

Aircraft collection

Dassault Mirage 3B-RV 250 DD
250/DD

869

396

Dassault Mirage 3B-RV

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21SPS

Mil Mi-8S

Highlights of the Musée de l’Abri de Hatten:

  1. The Maginot Line and the Bunker:
    • The museum is centered around a well-preserved bunker, part of the Maginot Line, a system of defensive fortifications built by France in the 1930s.
    • Visitors can explore the bunker, including its sleeping quarters, command rooms, and weapons systems, to gain an understanding of the life of soldiers stationed there.
  2. World War II Artifacts:
    • Displays include uniforms, weapons, communication equipment, and personal items used by soldiers.
    • The exhibits also cover the battles of 1940 and 1944-1945, particularly the fierce fighting in Alsace during the liberation of France.
  3. Interactive and Educational Displays:
    • Dioramas and multimedia presentations illustrate the Maginot Line’s design, construction, and operation, as well as its historical context.
    • Maps, photos, and videos provide detailed accounts of the strategic importance of the region and the battles fought there.
  4. Post-War Reconstruction and Memory:
    • The Musée de l’Abri de Hatten also focuses on the aftermath of the war, including the reconstruction of Hatten and the commemoration of those who served and sacrificed.
  5. Outdoor Displays:
    • The Musée de l’Abri de Hatten grounds feature an impressive collection of military vehicles and artillery, including tanks, trucks, and other wartime machinery.

Practical Information:

  • Location: Hatten, Bas-Rhin, Alsace, France.
  • Events: The Musée de l’Abri de Hatten may host reenactments, historical talks, or special exhibits commemorating key anniversaries.
  • Accessibility: Suitable for all ages, the museum is an excellent educational destination for families, school groups, and history enthusiasts.

The Musée de l’Abri de Hatten offers a moving and informative experience, shedding light on the challenges of war and the resilience of those who lived through it.