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Traces and relics of the terrible events of the First World War between 1914 and 1918 can be found throughout the area.

It shows the senselessness of war. It's easy to miss, which has its advantages when we want to protect loved ones (e.g., children) from this macabre sight.

🔭 **Observatoire de l’Étang d’Amel – Nature Observation at the Pond** At the Étang d’Amel, there is a wooden observation post from which wildlife can be observed undisturbed. Waterfowl such as herons, ducks, and geese are particularly easy to spot here – depending on the season, even with their young. 🌾 The platform is sheltered from the wind, offers information panels about the regional fauna, and is idyllically situated among reeds, trees, and riparian grass. **Tip:** Bring binoculars! The chances of spotting birds are particularly good in the early morning or late afternoon. Ideal for nature lovers and families.

🌿 **Étang d'Amel – A tranquil pond with a natural flair near Basse-Ham** The Étang d'Amel is a small, idyllic pond east of Thionville, surrounded by meadows, groves of trees, and quiet walking paths. The water serves as a refuge for birds and amphibians – and a relaxing spot for walkers and nature lovers. 🦆 Occasionally, you'll encounter anglers, ducks, or herons here – otherwise: pure peace and quiet. **Tip:** Perfect for a quiet break on your hike – take some time and enjoy the sound of the water and the birdsong.

The Ossuary of Douaumont is an impressive memorial that holds the remains of more than 130,000 unknown French and German soldiers who died during the Battle of Verdun (1916). The bones are visible through small windows in the base – a confronting reminder of the horrors of war. In front of the ossuary is the Nécropole nationale de Douaumont, the largest French military cemetery of the First World War, with 16,142 graves, including a Muslim and Jewish plot. The complex was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.

Since 2006, a monument has stood on the hill of Douaumont in memory of the 30,000 Muslim soldiers who died for France during the First World War. Inaugurated by President Jacques Chirac, it consists of a semicircular gallery with Arab architectural elements. In the middle is a column with the inscription: “À la mémoire des soldats musulmans morts pour la France”. The monument recognizes the diversity of the French army and honors the contribution of soldiers from North Africa and other parts of the then French empire.

This monument depicts a recumbent French soldier and is dedicated to André Thomé, a member of parliament who volunteered for the front and was killed at Verdun on 10 March 1916. Although exempted from service as a politician, he chose to fight. The sculpture, by Alexandre Descatoire, is entitled Le Soldat du Droit – the soldier of the right – and symbolises the sacrifice of just men for a higher ideal.

The Abri-Caverne de Douaumont was an underground shelter for French troops during the Battle of Verdun. Carved into the limestone bedrock, this shelter offered protection from artillery fire and served as a rest and assembly point close to the front line. Strategically located near Fort de Douaumont, it played a crucial role in supplying and sheltering soldiers during the fiercest fighting of 1916.