"The battle, which lasted from 21 February to 15 December 1916, was a turning point in the First World War, and Fort Douaumont was at the heart of it. In 1914 the fort was the strongest and most modern of the fortifications around Verdun and it formed the keystone of the French defence in the area. Using both French and German sources, Christina Holstein introduces ... the fortress system around Verdun, explains the construction, reinforcement and armament of Fort Douaumont and describes its surprise capture by the Germans in February 1916. Its loss was a terrible blow to French morale and their repeated attempts to retake the fort are portrayed in graphic detail. As the months ground on and the Battle of Verdun turned into stalemate, the desire to keep or to recapture Fort Douaumont, whatever the cost, became the reason for both sides to go on fighting ... [This book] provides insight into the brutal nature of the struggle -- and into the soldiers ... who took part in it"--Publisher's website.

The Keystone of the arch -- Douaumont has fallen! -- A terrible explosion -- A thunderstorm of smoke and steel -- The stronghold retaken -- After the battle. Tour no. 1. The Douaumont fortified sector -- Tour no. 2. A tour of the ditch and superstructure -- Tour no. 3. The interior of Fort Douaumont -- Tour no. 4. A car tour of the general area.