The Fascinating History and Secrets of the Atlantic Wall Bunkers
The Atlantic Wall was a massive fortification system built by Nazi Germany during World War II to prevent an Allied invasion. It stretched for thousands of miles along the coast of Western Europe, and included bunkers, gun emplacements, and other defensive structures. Today, many of these bunkers still stand, reminding us of the lasting impact of World War II on the Western European coast. The history of the Atlantic Wall goes back to 1940, when Hitler ordered the construction of a series of fortifications along the French coast to protect against a possible British invasion. As the war continued, the fortifications were extended along the entire Atlantic coast, from Norway to Spain. The bunkers were designed to withstand bombardment from land, sea, and air, and were equipped with heavy artillery and machine guns. They were often built into the cliffs, making them difficult to spot from the air. Despite the strength of the Atlantic Wall, it was not enough to prevent the Allied invasion...