Open since 2011, the Musée de la Grande Guerre showcases a unique collection of over 70,000 objects and documents, in a unique scenography. From the outset, the museum's aim was to be fun, suitable for all ages 4 and up: given the seriousness of the subject, it was a tall order, but one that has been amply met, thanks to reproductions and a soundtrack that take us onto the battlefield and let us experience the soldiers' daily lives!
The Musée de la Grande Guerre in Meaux is preparing to mark a new stage in the transmission of the history of the First World War, with the inauguration of its open-air educational trench on November 11, 2024.
Located in the museum's rear grounds, this life-size trench is integrated into the museum's architecture and scenography. It has been designed with historical rigor in mind, allowing visitors to explore a faithful reconstruction of the "second line" right up to "no man's land".
On November 11:
Dramatized or guided tours of the trench, guided tours of the trench-related exhibitions and permanent collection, and meetings with First World War enthusiasts. Please note that there will be no free tours of the trench on the opening day!
ONLINE TICKETS
The experience begins in the museum's west corridor, where visitors are invited to slip into the shoes of a new recruit observing the battlefield. Information devices, such as telescopes and explanatory panels, prepare visitors to enter the trench. Once lowered into the structure via a staircase or elevator for the mobility-impaired, they discover a strikingly realistic trench scene, with a grating floor inspired by the actual layout of the period.
The tour takes in strategic points such as the gutters, observation posts and listening posts, as well as the shelter that was at the heart of soldiers' daily lives: men lived in the shelter, and it was to its quality that soldiers owed their survival. No-man's-land is strikingly realistic, with a devastated area littered with barbed wire, shells and other debris reminiscent of the appalling conditions at the front.
A total of 11 zones are reproduced in an educational approach. This approach reinforces visitors' understanding of the realities of the Great War by literally transporting them into the world of the poilus. Elements such as the artillery station, first-aid post and soldiers' shelters plunge visitors into a hyper-realistic environment, enhanced by an immersive soundtrack.
Designed to appeal to families, the exhibition has special features for young children aged 5 and over, and guided tours and workshops are also available for school groups, providing an enriching introduction to the realities of the Great War.
The facilities are also adapted for people with disabilities, enabling everyone to visit this place of remembrance in the best possible conditions. At the same time, specific tours for schoolchildren will be organized, and mediation tools will enable content to be adapted for a wide audience.
Entrance to the trench is included in the museum ticket, making this experience accessible to all visitors!
Dates and Opening Time
From November 11, 2024 to December 31, 2027
Location
Museum of the Great War in the Meaux region
Rue Lazare Ponticelli
77100 Meaux
Recommended age
From 4 years old
Official website
www.museedelagrandeguerre.com
More information
Opening hours: The museum is open every day except Tuesday from 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.