Battlefield Survivor: Verdun's Caverne du Douaumont aka Abri 320

Interior View Today

Abri 320 is an underground  brick and concrete shelter  for soldiers who might be fighting in the  sector. Built between 1889 and 1891, after the Franco-Prussian war of 1870–71. It was also to serve as a dressing station and a command post. The shelter dates from the same time than the defense forts of Douaumont, Vaux, Froideterre and Souville. The shelter is located  at 334 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Douaumont National Cemetery and Ossuary.

Position on the Battlefield

Topside View:  Note Position of the Two Chimneys

The structure, covered by 12 feet of earth, consists of a 60-meter-long main gallery, capable of holding 300 men, with two lateral entrance tunnels. Ventilation was provided by two massive concrete metal chimneys which are still visible today.

Schematic Plan: The Entrances Are on the Backside of
the Above Photo

Abri 320 was deactivated in 1915, during the phase of disarmament of the surrounding forts. However, the  great German offensive of February 1916 forced the government to reopen it and it became the main command post for the Thiamont sector of the battle.  In June, the Germans first forced its evacuation, after which its possession went back and forth until the French drove the enemy back to Fort Douaumont and secured it for good.

Partially Filled Entrance

Both Chimneys Survived All the Bombardments of the Battle

Abri 320 was bombarded by both sides through the battle, but it's structural integrity was never compromised. The ground located above and around the shelter has been left in its wartime condition, although the terrain has been softened somewhat by time and the weather.

The Terrain Around Abri 320, a Century Later

Source: De la Fortification Séré de Rivières