Coastline - Fortifications
Due to the Island’s strategic position within the English Channel, Guernsey has quite an array of fortifications dating back to various times in our history.
Chateaux des Marais is thought to date back to as early as the eleventh century, and was used as a refuge for islanders against marauding ships. As with so many of our fortifications, Chateaux des Marais was added to over the years.
German forces took full advantage of these sites during the occupation of the island (1940 -45). At many of the older sites, generally made from the local pink or grey granite, you will see the imposing grey concrete additions, built as part of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall.
In 1995 Guernsey completely restored one of its many German military bunkers – A Coast Defence Casemate. It is now open to the public and is situated at Vazon, and was part of a chain of west coast German defences.
Also open to the public is the Direction Finding Tower, The German Naval Signal Headquarters, The German Occupation Museum, La Valette Underground Military Museum and the German Underground Hospital.
Built around 1250 in St Peter Port's harbour to defend the island against the French, Castle Cornet has been wonderfully preserved and remains as a living monument. Believe it or not the American War of Independence of 1775 initiated the building of other coastal defence towers all around Guernsey. Because France decided to side with the American colonists in their struggle against Britain, Guernsey wisely built 15 towers.
One of these Loop-holed Coastal Towers, at Rousse on the Island's west coast, has been lovingly restored and is open to the public. It shows how life would have been for the soldiers back in the 18th century.
Castle Cornet houses three Museums – The Maritime Museum, 291 Squadron Museum and the Story of Castle Cornet.
Please check opening times of the above attractions here or conatct the Guernsey Information Centre.
THE GUERNSEY OPEN BASS FESTIVAL 2010 26 Aug 2010 - 30 Aug 2010
Contact Brian Montgomery on +44 (0) 7781 109121
Guernsey’s longest running and most prestigious annual shore and boat sport fishing competition for all ages. £5,000 gua...
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GUERNSEY POWERBOAT RACING 02 May 2010 - 10 Oct 2010
Contact Jonathan Rowe +44 (0) 7781 158 128
A programme of race dates with competitors from Guernsey, Sark and the United Kingdom. See the website for further details. Race ...
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