Exploring a Hidden German War Hospital

A battlefield tour covers so much more than tourist hotspots. When led by the experts, you can find things off the beaten path, like a German war hospital in Apremont - less than half a mile from the front lines during World War I. Apremont is located in was part of the Battle of St. Mihiel, fought by American and French troops. Our bus driver led us off the beaten path and into the woods on a dirt road. This is something I never would have been able to find on my own!

The hospital exterior and entrance

The hospital is covered in leaves, moss, and dirt. It is surrounded by trenches built by Bavarians - known by French and American soldiers as the nicer of the German troops when compared to the Prussians.

Looking out

Over 100 years later, the construction is being reclaimed by nature, but still maintains its integrity as it is a solid piece of concrete that seems impossible to penetrate. Now nestled in a quiet forest that is not riddled with the constant flurry of gunfire, it is best accessible with a historian and subject matter expert.

Trenches

History is alive with the scars of war decorating the Northeastern France landscape. To explore such a place is both haunting and exhilarating. The history is both seen and felt, inspiring a sense of gratefulness and sadness. All around the hospital deep trenches still puncture the soil. With careful exploration, the trenches reveal their preservation and at times the unmistakable imprint of bullets can be seen in the trees. Also visible are culverts and peepholes, both necessary to check for enemy troops.

Culvert in a trench

Peephole