Mardasson Memorial
Route de Bizory 1, Bastogne, Wallonia, 6600
One of World War II’s most notorious battles took place at what’s now the star-shaped Mardasson Memorial, which pays tribute to the 80,000 US soldiers killed or wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. Now called the Battle of the Bulge Monument, it’s a solemn place of reflection and remembrance.
The basics
Learn about the final, ill-fated German offensive against the Allies during World War II at this memorial in southern Belgium. It’s possible to independently explore the memorial in about an hour, including the white marble mausoleum, the subterranean crypt with multiple altars for multi-denominational prayers, and the memorial rooftop accessible by spiral stairs with countryside views. The site is often a component of World War II tours from Brussels that include several stops in this history-rich Belgian region.
Things to know before you go
A must-visit site for history buffs, World War II enthusiasts, and families seeking educational opportunities.
This landmark is in an exposed location that can be windy, especially on top of the memorial, so bring layers of clothing and don’t be surprised if the rooftop is closed for bad weather.
The majority of this memorial is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
The Mardasson Memorial is at Rte de Bizory 1 in Bastogne, Belgium. Most visitors arrive by private car or tour, utilize on-site parking, and explore the site at their own pace. The landmark also has a bus stop for ease of access via public transportation; take the bus to Bastogne Mardasson.
When to get there
Many visitors explore southern Belgium during the warm summer months of June to August, but this season also coincides with larger crowds when kids are out of school. The best time to visit may be the spring or fall months when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are less common. Seeing the memorial floodlit during sunset hours can be a very moving experience.
More World War II history in Belgium
The Battle of the Bulge Monument is next door to the Bastogne War Museum, an interactive World War II military history museum. It’s easy to combine these two landmarks into one visit to learn about the Second World War in general and the particulars of the Battle of the Bulge. Other local landmarks worth a visit include the Peace Wood Memorial, the Bastogne Barracks, and the 101st Airborne Museum.
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