This exhibit is dedicated to places of memory in and around the city of Verdun which relate to the Battle of Verdun and the First World War. Although Verdun was not the deadliest battle of the war, it acquired special significance within French history due to its duration and symbolism of attritional warfare. As an ancient settlement with a history stretching back as far as the Caroligian empire, Verdun was already imbued with a certain national importance by 1916. During the Battle, the city and many of its landmarks were heavily damaged by the endless barrages of German artillery fire. The toll of fighting on civilians devasted the local population and today there are less inhabitants who reside there than before the First World War. During the interwar years, a number of monuments and memorials were commisioned to honor both the fallen soldiers and civilians who gave their lives for France.