The Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval, located in Thiepval, France, is a poignant museum dedicated to the history of World War I, with a particular focus on the Battle of the Somme and its immense human impact. Situated near the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, this museum provides deep insight into the experiences of soldiers and civilians during one of the war’s most devastating campaigns.

Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval

8 Rue de l’Ancre

80300 Thiepval

France

www.historial.fr

thiepval-accueil@historial.org

+33 32 274 6047

March 1 – October 31

• Daily 09:30 – 18:00

November 1 – February 28

• Daily 09:30 – 17:00

Closed December 16 – January 31

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

1530/2

Nieuport 17 (replica)

Photos Wouter Roerdink

As an extension to the existing visitor centre, the new Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval opened in June 2016.

Built in complement to the existing centre, it is devoted to the history of the battles of the Somme, especially the Somme Campaign of 1916, and to the memory of the Missing. The permanent exhibition of 400m2 unites museum pieces, archaeological artefacts, multimedia, and large-scale installations such as the replica of Charles Guynemer’s aeroplane. The 60-metre long mural by Joe Sacco opens an imaginary window onto the 1 July 1916 battlefield.

Key Features

Musée de Thiepval

1. World War I Exhibits:
   • The museum explores the causes, consequences, and human toll of the Great War through a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, personal items, letters, and photographs.
   • It provides a detailed narrative of the Battle of the Somme, fought in 1916, one of the deadliest battles in history.
2. Multinational Perspective:
   • The museum emphasizes the global nature of World War I by showcasing the perspectives of soldiers from France, Great Britain, and Germany. This unique comparative approach helps visitors understand the shared suffering of all sides.
3. Interactive Displays:
   • Multimedia presentations, including maps, videos, and soundscapes, immerse visitors in the history of the war.
   • Detailed dioramas and models depict the trenches and battlefield landscapes.
4. Civilian Life:
   • The Historial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval examines how the war affected civilians in Europe, from displacement to the challenges of life on the home front.

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Thiepval Memorial to the Missing

• Adjacent to the museum is the Thiepval Memorial, a monumental structure that commemorates over 72,000 British and South African soldiers who died in the Battle of the Somme and have no known grave.
• The memorial was designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and stands as a powerful symbol of loss and remembrance.

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Visitor Experience

1. Film and Exhibits:
   • A short introductory film offers an overview of the Battle of the Somme and its historical context.
   • The exhibits guide visitors through the timeline of the war, focusing on the personal stories of those who lived and fought.
2. Educational Focus:
   • TheHistorial de la Grande Guerre – Musée de Thiepval is designed to educate visitors of all ages, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts, students, and families.
3. Reflection and Remembrance:
   • The proximity of the Thiepval Memorial adds a deeply emotional dimension to the visit, encouraging reflection on the sacrifices made during the war.