Orglandes German War Cemetery
A vast, serene memorial honoring over 10,000 German soldiers lost in the Normandy campaign, offering a profound space for reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peace
Orglandes German War Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, serene memorial honoring over 10,000 German soldiers lost in the Normandy campaign, offering a profound space for reflection.
"A place of silence and remembrance, beautifully maintained and a reminder to never let such tragedy happen again."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on grass and paths across a large area. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
This is a place for reflection, not a quick stop. Give yourself time to absorb the atmosphere. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea of Crosses
Main Cemetery Grounds
Thousands of stone crosses stretch across a vibrant green meadow, a poignant reminder of young lives lost.
Unknown Soldiers' Section
Designated Area
A somber section dedicated to soldiers whose identities remain unknown, a powerful symbol of war's anonymity.
Peaceful Ambiance
Throughout the Cemetery
Experience profound silence and tranquility, a stark contrast to the battles that once raged here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Reflection
Understanding the Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on grass and paths across a large area. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
This is a place for reflection, not a quick stop. Give yourself time to absorb the atmosphere. :clock1:
Visit in Solitude
Many visitors report having the cemetery to themselves, enhancing the profound sense of peace. :person_walking:
Understand the History
Learn about the Battle of Normandy to fully appreciate the significance of this site. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on grass and paths across a large area. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
This is a place for reflection, not a quick stop. Give yourself time to absorb the atmosphere. :clock1:
Visit in Solitude
Many visitors report having the cemetery to themselves, enhancing the profound sense of peace. :person_walking:
Understand the History
Learn about the Battle of Normandy to fully appreciate the significance of this site. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Orglandes German War Cemetery to be a profoundly moving and beautifully maintained site, offering a peaceful space for reflection on the immense human cost of the Normandy campaign. While some note it's not as widely known as other sites, its serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a highly recommended stop for those interested in WWII history.
"The German Cemetery of Orglandes is a place steeped in history and very moving. One deeply feels the weight of the past as one walks through the well-maintained paths, where several soldiers often rest per grave. The atmosphere is respectful and peaceful, conducive to contemplation. The site is well organized, and it is important to take the time to visit it to better understand the tragic events of the Second World War. A place not to be missed for anyone interested in history."
Dominique Morlet
"Worth a visit, superbly maintained, and a place of peace and reflection. Let's visit places like this more often as a reminder and a warning to never let something like this happen again and to be better as a community. Rest in peace."
Christian Steger
"Months
A place of silence and remembrance. Stone crosses sprout from the manicured, vibrant green meadow for more than 10,000 soldiers – young people who died fighting in the Cotentin after D-Day. Some of their names are unknown."
Wulf-Ingo Gilbert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located in Orglandes, Normandy, France. It's best accessed by car, as public transport options are limited. Many visitors include it as part of a larger Normandy battlefield tour.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors at the Orglandes German War Cemetery.
Absolutely. Many battlefield tours of Normandy include a stop at the Orglandes German War Cemetery, offering a comprehensive historical perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Orglandes German War Cemetery is generally free. It is a place of remembrance and reflection.
The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to experience its peaceful atmosphere throughout the day.
As there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required for the Orglandes German War Cemetery.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as deeply moving, respectful, peaceful, and conducive to contemplation. Many visitors find it a place of silence and remembrance.
The cemetery is the resting place for over 10,000 German soldiers who died during the Normandy campaign.
While specific facilities might be limited, the site is well-maintained with clear paths for walking and reflection.
Photography is generally permitted, but visitors are reminded to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
The cemetery has well-maintained paths, but the terrain is primarily grass and open fields, which may present challenges for some mobility devices.
📸 📷 Photography
The vast expanse of crosses stretching across the green fields offers a powerful visual. Early morning or late afternoon light can create a dramatic and reflective mood.
While generally allowed, visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor and avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the solemnity of the site.
Focus on the scale of the cemetery, the uniformity of the crosses, and the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere. Shots that convey a sense of quiet remembrance are most impactful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to observe the quiet atmosphere and the vastness of the graves. Discuss how many young people their age fought in the war. The well-maintained grounds offer space for children to walk, but emphasize the need for respectful behavior. Consider bringing a book about WWII for children to help contextualize the visit.
🤔 History Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the details: the multiple soldiers per grave, the section for unknown soldiers, and the overall layout designed by the Volksbund Deutsche Kriegsgräberfürsorge. Understanding the context of the Battle of the Cotentin Peninsula will greatly enhance your appreciation of this site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Orglandes
The cemetery is unique in that many graves contain the remains of multiple soldiers, a stark testament to the brutal nature of the fighting and the challenges of identification. Over 10,000 soldiers are interred here, with a portion of them being unknown. This vast expanse of crosses serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the shared tragedy experienced by all sides.
Visiting Orglandes offers a chance to reflect on the broader narrative of World War II in Normandy, moving beyond a singular perspective to acknowledge the sacrifices made by all combatants. It’s a place that encourages contemplation on peace and the importance of remembering history to prevent future conflicts.
Experiencing the Atmosphere
The meticulously maintained grounds, with their vibrant green lawns and uniform stone crosses, create a visually striking yet somber landscape. The sheer scale of the cemetery, with thousands of crosses stretching across the meadow, is often described as overwhelming and deeply moving. It’s a place where one can truly feel the weight of history and the immense loss of life. Many visitors emphasize the importance of taking your time here, allowing for quiet contemplation and a deeper understanding of the events that transpired.
This cemetery is not just a historical site; it's an emotional experience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and a call for peace. The tranquility of the site, even amidst its somber purpose, is frequently highlighted as a key aspect of its impact on visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit